Longtime lurker here, The weather takes some getting used to. Thanks in advance! It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Aaron Wood
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 40, moved here 3 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Pine Hills and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The safety situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Miami, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
40 upvotes
Everly
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely excellent and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (The Heights) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
39 upvotes
Madelyn King
I've lived in Riverside for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The public transit scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited public transit options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Zoe Mitchell
following this thread
32 upvotes
Nathan M.
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
Timothy M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 12 years. Moved from Seattle for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Highland schools are pretty good. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Road conditions need improvement. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Mason Sanders
Moved here from Boston about 3 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to cost of living but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
eliana_fan
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are tough, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
20 upvotes
Leonardo Mitchell
honestly same experience here
16 upvotes
Eliana Gonzalez
noted, appreciate it
14 upvotes
Nancy K.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Dating scene is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
7 upvotes
coastal_charlotte9
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 1 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Mia Clark
same here
3 upvotes
Kelly T.
I'm a writer and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
2 upvotes
Isaiah Rogers
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want healthcare, then yeah this place is great. But if weather matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.