Alright, I'm retired and Crime rate is something to consider -Franconia sits at 182.7 per 100K. Homes are going for about $557,800 on average. Median household income is $152,007, which feels pretty solid for the area. The median home value here is around $557,800, which is pretty steep. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up.
6 upvotes
14 Replies
Maya Scott
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Greenfield area are excellent. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Colton Brooks
Used to live on the Eastside side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
30 upvotes
Leonardo K.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Jackson James
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The cost of living is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Isla
I'm a project manager and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
29 upvotes
Daniel S.
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The traffic is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Reagan Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 7 years. Moved from Portland for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. education 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests 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. Limited high-paying job options. Dating scene is rough. And safety 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.
24 upvotes
Melanie Evans
as a local I can confirm
24 upvotes
Michael Bennett
yep
24 upvotes
Joseph Bailey
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is tough in most areas.
22 upvotes
Riley Alvarez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 50, moved here 8 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Old Town and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The public transit situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Seattle, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K 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.
22 upvotes
Everly
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want outdoor recreation, then yeah this place is great. But if cost of living matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
22 upvotes
Aubrey Hernandez
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want food scene, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
2 upvotes
Nevaeh Collins
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
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