Been meaning to ask this. We're a young couple and Household incomes average around $99,010 in Highland. Crime rate is something to consider -Highland sits at 890.2 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $1,569 for rent here. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
15 upvotes
13 Replies
omahaguy2024
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
30 upvotes
Emily Gutierrez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
26 upvotes
Hunter R.
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much established but now it's average.
24 upvotes
chicago_silas
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Owen G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 35, moved here 8 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Oak Park and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The walkability situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 Dallas, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
21 upvotes
John B.
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Meadowbrook area are decent. Kids love it here.
18 upvotes
peyton_dude
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The safety is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
17 upvotes
Cora Nelson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
17 upvotes
Madeline T.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 12 years. Moved from Dallas for cost of living. 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 significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is solid - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are hit or miss. 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 entertainment options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Melanie R.
Bought a house here in 2018 and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
6 upvotes
Camila Gomez
big facts right here
1 upvotes
Luke L.
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The nightlife is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
1 upvotes
Clara R.
I'm a contractor and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is solid and there's always something going on.