Hi all, Poverty rate is 15.1%, which is higher than I expected. With a population of 50,607, Middletown is a smaller city. Crime rate is something to consider -Middletown sits at 421.5 per 100K. The median home value here is around $148,300, which is actually reasonable. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Any help is appreciated. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
20 upvotes
11 Replies
Michael Phillips
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The school system scene is average
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. No regrets on my end..
38 upvotes
Jean P.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
Brooks Reed
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The school system is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
34 upvotes
Jayden
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Pittsburgh it's average.
34 upvotes
Emilia W.
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great farm-to-table places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
29 upvotes
Adeline Sanders
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in The Heights area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
28 upvotes
lake_jordan44
seconding this
25 upvotes
Brenda K.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Hope this helps!.
19 upvotes
Evan Gonzalez
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
18 upvotes
Kai Stewart
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 14 years. Moved from Phoenix for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are underrated. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Far from beaches/mountains. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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