My family moved here when I was a kid. The unemployment rate is 2.6%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $2,468/month for a decent place. The median home value here is around $870,300, which is pretty steep. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
11 upvotes
6 Replies
Serenity Foster
I've lived in The Heights for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good airport with direct flights
- The dating scene scene is tough
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
31 upvotes
Debra S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 14 years. Moved from Miami for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2015 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are excellent. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Far from beaches/mountains. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Elena Bennett
Used to live on the West side, now on the Uptown side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
25 upvotes
Bennett Phillips
I'm a nurse and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
9 upvotes
Leah G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 2 years. Moved from Portland for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2019 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:**
finance is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is decent - we have state parks 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 decent. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited entertainment options. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.