Hi all, The median home value here is around $314,500, which seems about average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Am I overthinking this? Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
11 upvotes
15 Replies
Alexa Gomez
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much pricey but now it's better than expected.
38 upvotes
Ruby James
exactly what I was thinking
36 upvotes
Zoe James
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic 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.
26 upvotes
Maverick Lewis
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Portland it's hit or miss.
25 upvotes
Emilia W.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to San Diego it's hit or miss.
21 upvotes
loving_colton17
I've lived in Highland for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Close to major attractions
- The traffic scene is solid
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
20 upvotes
Katherine Nguyen
hmm interesting perspective
19 upvotes
Ruby Martin
Moved here from Charlotte about 4 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to job market but No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
Jameson Flores
big facts right here
16 upvotes
Audrey Davis
glad someone said it
14 upvotes
Cameron H.
couldn't agree more
11 upvotes
Claire
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
Dylan Nelson
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great Asian places. it was the best decision I ever made.
7 upvotes
Linda B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 26, moved here 8 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Eastside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Property taxes are high
3. The housing market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Austin, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
1 upvotes
Kai
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is solid in most areas.