Anyone else feel this way? It's a a small town city with about 11,868 people. Poverty rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 74--F, so it's warm year-round. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Thoughts? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
8 upvotes
12 Replies
Xavier
couldn't agree more
34 upvotes
Everett Jimenez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 8 years. Moved from Denver for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are decent. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Homeless population growing downtown. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Camila S.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Seattle about 9 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Feel free to reach out with questions..
27 upvotes
Roman C.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Ariana Morales
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
25 upvotes
Peyton Anderson
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Old Town area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
23 upvotes
Sofia Cooper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 1 years. Moved from Denver for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2022 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have hiking trails 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 solid. 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. Can feel isolated. Bugs and humidity in summer. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Mateo B.
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Lakewood area are excellent. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Victoria Campbell
lol so true
10 upvotes
Willow
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
9 upvotes
Declan Ortiz
The food scene here is average. Tons of great seafood places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
6 upvotes
Bella Mitchell
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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