Longtime lurker here, I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $86,100 on average. With a population of 19,831, Harvey is a small town. The unemployment rate is 7.5%, which is concerning. The median home value here is around $86,100, which is actually reasonable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Let me know your thoughts. Appreciate any input. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
4 upvotes
12 Replies
Samuel Hall
not my experience at all
35 upvotes
Emilia Phillips
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Cedar Grove area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
31 upvotes
Aaron T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 41, moved here 9 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in North and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The public transit situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
28 upvotes
Angel C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is challenging in most areas.
23 upvotes
Landon H.
haha yep pretty much
20 upvotes
Lucas H.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great craft beer places. it exceeded my expectations.
18 upvotes
Silas W.
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
17 upvotes
chicago_sadie
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Hope this helps!.
15 upvotes
Nevaeh M.
great question, following
13 upvotes
Ellie Howard
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
11 upvotes
Lily Peterson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 12 years. Moved from Miami for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 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:**
retail is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is improving - 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. North schools are average. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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