Been meaning to ask this. I'm a remote worker and The median home value here is around $319,700, which seems about average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. What would you do? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to.
9 upvotes
14 Replies
Caroline H.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from San Francisco 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 The Heights. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in education. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Definitely worth checking out..
39 upvotes
Owen Bennett
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is underrated in most areas.
36 upvotes
Skylar Smith
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Baltimore it's pretty good.
33 upvotes
Elizabeth Roberts
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Phoenix about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Homeless population growing downtown
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 reasonable, gas is solid.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
30 upvotes
Declan Garcia
hmm interesting perspective
23 upvotes
sd_dominic
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Baltimore about 1 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Feel free to reach out with questions..
22 upvotes
James Castillo
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 52, moved here 3 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Greenfield and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited shopping options
3. The nightlife situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for remote workers. solid vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Phoenix, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
15 upvotes
Katherine T.
following this thread
13 upvotes
Caleb Hill
100%
10 upvotes
santiago_mama
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
10 upvotes
Jace Wright
same here
9 upvotes
Arianna Anderson
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
7 upvotes
Naomi Nguyen
spot on
4 upvotes
Philip C.
I've lived in Highland for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Active local events and festivals
- The school system scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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