Hey everyone, The unemployment rate is 4.4%, which is about average. Homes are going for about $198,700 on average. Household incomes average around $58,264 in Ensley. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Let me know your thoughts. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. 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.
0 upvotes
10 Replies
detroitvibes2022
literally same
40 upvotes
Parker Carter
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 15 years. Moved from Austin for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. tech 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 hit or miss - we have ski resorts 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. Urban sprawl is real. Dating scene is rough. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Aurora B.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Seattle it's better than expected.
37 upvotes
Caleb Ortiz
Moved here last year, no regrets.
31 upvotes
Ezekiel Adams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 40, moved here 13 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in West and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Chicago, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
19 upvotes
Claire
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Dallas about 12 years ago. The main reasons were school and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are manageable, gas is tough.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Good luck with whatever you decide..
13 upvotes
parker_native
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 14 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Luca Ruiz
100%
3 upvotes
Julie K.
I'm a real estate agent and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
1 upvotes
Isaiah Hill
Used to live on the North side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
All Countries
