Hey folks, I'm retired and Household incomes average around $101,991 in Highland Park. Median household income is $101,991, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Highland Park sits at 101.5 per 100K. Homes are going for about $463,600 on average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Am I wrong here? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
5 upvotes
9 Replies
Asher Clark
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 4 years. Moved from Dallas for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. manufacturing 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 surprisingly good - 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. The Heights 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. Nightlife is limited. Far from beaches/mountains. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Helen S.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Good luck with whatever you decide..
27 upvotes
Dylan Anderson
exactly what I was thinking
27 upvotes
Autumn Wilson
I work in healthcare here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is challenging. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
wild_arianna82
bump
25 upvotes
William Roberts
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 39, moved here 10 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Maple Ridge and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. improving vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Boston, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
25 upvotes
William Hughes
facts
19 upvotes
Austin P.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
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