Been meaning to ask this. I'm single, late 40s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Howard sits at 495.3 per 100K. With a population of 20,261, Howard is a small town. You can expect to pay around $1,053 for rent here. Homes are going for about $286,200 on average. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Am I overthinking this? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
12 upvotes
15 Replies
Ezra Turner
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
39 upvotes
Lydia
it depends on the neighborhood
30 upvotes
Allison Garcia
Totally agree!
27 upvotes
seattlemama2022
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 4 years. Moved from Portland for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Rising rent and home prices. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Ariana A.
Saving this thread
17 upvotes
Silas Ruiz
big facts right here
14 upvotes
Theodore
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Greenfield for 13 years. Moved from San Francisco for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
retail 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:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. Greenfield schools are improving. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Homeless population growing downtown. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Jameson Lopez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 8 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into running, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
10 upvotes
Angel Ross
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 47, moved here 2 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Eastside and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Close to major attractions
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited shopping options
3. The traffic situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Denver, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$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.
8 upvotes
Nolan Ramos
wish I knew this sooner
7 upvotes
Melanie O.
Bought a house here in 2016 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone about the same since then.
7 upvotes
Caroline Myers
lol so true
4 upvotes
Ethan L.
Bought a house here in 2022 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone about the same since then.
3 upvotes
Everett
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 5 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
3 upvotes
Everett Campbell
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
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