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native_kayden55
housing
Is Harleysville still affordable?
Hi all, Just moved here 7 months ago and The city has invested a lot in new development. Any advice would be great.
2 upvotes
3 Replies
Waylon
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Uptown area are tough. Kids love it here.
39 upvotes
Nicholas Wilson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from San Diego about 4 years ago. The main reasons were school and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is average.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Happy to answer more specific questions..
I'm a social worker who relocated here from San Diego about 4 years ago. The main reasons were school and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is average.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Wyatt Carter
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 46, moved here 9 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Midtown and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The public transit situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for remote workers. solid vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 46, moved here 9 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Midtown and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The public transit situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for remote workers. solid vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
2 upvotes