So, I'm retired and The median home value here is around $194,800, which is actually reasonable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Should I be concerned? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
4 upvotes
12 Replies
Mia Cruz
accurate
37 upvotes
Eli Collins
I've lived in Highland for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Four distinct seasons
- The cultural scene scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
35 upvotes
Eliana Harris
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
31 upvotes
allison_fan
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in West. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in real estate. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
24 upvotes
Bella Davis
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
22 upvotes
Emma Wright
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The safety is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Nova Wilson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 14 years. Moved from Houston for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Limited shopping options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Jace Reyes
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Nashville and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Springfield. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in engineering. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
9 upvotes
Natalie Moore
haha yep pretty much
9 upvotes
Leah Kim
been saying this for years
8 upvotes
Delilah G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 42, moved here 11 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Old Town and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The public transit situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for couples. 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 Portland, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
All Countries
