Not sure if this has been asked before, but Poverty rate is 19.2%, which is higher than I expected.
7 upvotes
10 Replies
Lucy Morales
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
33 upvotes
Santiago Rodriguez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Riverside. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Definitely worth checking out..
32 upvotes
Allison Long
Moved here last year, no regrets.
22 upvotes
Peyton Morales
haha yep pretty much
19 upvotes
Colton L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 26, moved here 6 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Highland and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The nightlife situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Houston, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
17 upvotes
John
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Tampa about 14 years ago. The main reasons were family and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is decent.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
8 upvotes
Delilah
Saving this thread
6 upvotes
Nathan P.
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
4 upvotes
Elijah Martinez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 13 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. consulting 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is decent - 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 underrated. 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. Limited shopping options. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.