Not sure if this has been asked before, but Just moved here 12 months ago and Rent is about $1,061/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider — Independence sits at 589.2 per 100K. Homes are going for about $166,400 on average. You can expect to pay around $1,061 for rent here. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Worth the trade-offs? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
7 upvotes
19 Replies
Theodore
Moved here from Raleigh about 5 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to cost of living but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
40 upvotes
Carter Nguyen
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much developing but now it's improving.
39 upvotes
Zoe Wright
I'm a sales manager and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
Gianna Sanders
wish I knew this sooner
32 upvotes
Wesley E.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is challenging in most areas.
26 upvotes
David Wilson
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Henry J.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
20 upvotes
Josiah Young
good to know, thanks
18 upvotes
Audrey B.
thanks for sharing
14 upvotes
Aria G.
preach
13 upvotes
Cooper Ross
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want school system, then yeah this place is great. But if nightlife matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
12 upvotes
Evan R.
noted, appreciate it
11 upvotes
Andrew Hernandez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 8 years. Moved from Houston for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2018 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:**
government 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 tough - we have state parks 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 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. Limited high-paying job options. Property taxes are high. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Parker
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
7 upvotes
Lucas Bailey
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
6 upvotes
Jack Lopez
as a local I can confirm
4 upvotes
Connor Young
hard disagree but ok
4 upvotes
Brooklyn C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely excellent and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Midtown) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
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.
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