Hello, I work in hospitality and The median home value here is around $224,700, which is actually reasonable. Rent is about $881/month for a decent place. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
7 upvotes
8 Replies
Katherine A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 58, moved here 7 years ago from LA. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The school system situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 LA, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
37 upvotes
Anna H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 41, moved here 12 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Midtown and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The job market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Nashville, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
34 upvotes
cool_maya82
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
23 upvotes
Allison Hughes
I've lived in The Heights for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The job market scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Definitely worth checking out..
20 upvotes
Maya R.
haha yep pretty much
16 upvotes
Avery James
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
7 upvotes
Josiah T.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want traffic, then yeah this place is great. But if cost of living matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
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