Not sure if this has been asked before, but Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $426,900 on average. You can expect to pay around $1,620 for rent here. Household incomes average around $87,675 in Haverhill. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. 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. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
27 upvotes
14 Replies
Nathan Gutierrez
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if outdoor recreation matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
23 upvotes
Scarlett C.
+1
20 upvotes
Victoria A.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 12 years. Moved from Chicago for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
government is strong here. marketing 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 been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Old Town schools are challenging. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Property taxes are high. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Naomi
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 10 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - we have beaches 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 tough. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited high-paying job options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
mountain_thomas50
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 3 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are affordable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Everett Gutierrez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Charlotte about 9 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is decent.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
11 upvotes
sf_ezra
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Downtown area are excellent. Kids love it here.
11 upvotes
Roman Clark
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely solid and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (North) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
9 upvotes
Emmett T.
noted, appreciate it
6 upvotes
Samuel P.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Miami it's surprisingly good.
6 upvotes
Jacob Walker
preach
4 upvotes
Leah Thompson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Phoenix about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are pricey, gas is pretty good.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Good luck with whatever you decide..