Random thought, Thoughts? The city has invested a lot in new development.
2 upvotes
12 Replies
Nevaeh White
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Feel free to reach out with questions..
39 upvotes
Charlotte Robinson
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want public transit, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
38 upvotes
thomas_lover
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
34 upvotes
Elena Thompson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 30, moved here 15 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Downtown and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The safety situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for families. decent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Nashville, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K 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.
32 upvotes
Skylar Kelly
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The school system is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
29 upvotes
Mateo Mendoza
great question, following
28 upvotes
Kinsley Green
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Aaron L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 46, moved here 12 years ago from Austin. I've lived in The Heights and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Close to major attractions
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Can feel isolated
3. The job market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Austin, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K 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.
18 upvotes
Everett Morgan
facts
10 upvotes
Rylee Roberts
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Westside area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
8 upvotes
Bennett Richardson
Moved here from Chicago about 13 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to school system but No regrets on my end..
5 upvotes
Willow Ward
I've lived in Highland for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong job market in several industries
- The weather scene is average
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..