The median home value here is around $287,200, which seems about average. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What are your go-to spots? The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
22 upvotes
15 Replies
Ariana Patel
Came here for work and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The pet-friendliness is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
39 upvotes
David Sanchez
+1
32 upvotes
Leo Watson
not my experience at all
30 upvotes
Robert P.
thanks for sharing
25 upvotes
Mackenzie F.
I've lived in Highland for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- The school system scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Good luck with whatever you decide..
23 upvotes
Charlotte M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 2 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Everly Diaz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 10 years. Moved from San Diego for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are improving. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Limited entertainment options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Santiago
facts
16 upvotes
Kayden T.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
14 upvotes
Logan
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
9 upvotes
Christian S.
I'm a project manager and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
8 upvotes
Wesley White
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 14 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
7 upvotes
Kayden Thomas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 50, moved here 3 years ago from New York. I've lived in Oak Park and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Bugs and humidity in summer
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The outdoor recreation situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for remote workers. tough vibes, walkable.
- North: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from New York, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
5 upvotes
Roman H.
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great craft beer places. it exceeded my expectations.
1 upvotes
Austin R.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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