Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm single, late 50s, and You can expect to pay around $2,616 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. Has anyone dealt with this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
4 upvotes
7 Replies
Serenity S.
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in West area are solid. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
Camila Jimenez
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The healthcare is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Robert Robinson
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 14 years. Moved from LA for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. 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 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. consulting 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 hit or miss - 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 hit or miss. 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 public transit options. Summers can be brutally hot. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Ariana Lopez
been saying this for years
9 upvotes
Vivian
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely challenging and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (Westside) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
6 upvotes
Marilyn R.
Moved here from Minneapolis about 5 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to dating scene but No regrets on my end..
3 upvotes
Easton R.
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cultural scene used to be much affordable but now it's surprisingly good.