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John Garcia housing

Rent vs buy in Inver Grove Heights -what makes sense?

Been meaning to ask this. The median home value here is around $352,300, which seems about average. Crime rate is something to consider -Inver Grove Heights sits at 218.7 per 100K. Rent is about $1,447/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Thanks! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
16 upvotes

10 Replies

Maverick Gonzalez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Downtown for 2 years. Moved from Nashville for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2017 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:**
consulting is strong here. legal 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown 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. Winters are long and cold. Property taxes are high. And food scene can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
emily_local
yep
37 upvotes
nyc_william
as a local I can confirm
34 upvotes
Olivia M.
I've lived in Fairview for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
- The traffic scene is improving

The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Bugs and humidity in summer

Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Sophie
bump
26 upvotes
Emmett Gonzalez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is average in most areas.
16 upvotes
Maya
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 13 years. Moved from Charlotte for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.

**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have desert landscapes 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 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. Dating scene is rough. Bugs and humidity in summer. And housing market can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Dominic Miller
as a local I can confirm
9 upvotes
colton_local
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
2 upvotes
Jack G.
I'm a accountant and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
1 upvotes
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