Hello, The unemployment rate is 1.5%, which is pretty low. Household incomes average around $139,564 in Mililani Mauka. Median household income is $139,564, which feels pretty solid for the area. Rent is about $2,389/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What would you do? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
10 upvotes
12 Replies
Thomas Brown
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Easton Rodriguez
Moved here from Charlotte about 6 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to job market but Definitely worth checking out..
25 upvotes
Elizabeth Martin
yeah no that's not right
24 upvotes
Kaylee M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 56, moved here 15 years ago from New York. I've lived in Oak Park and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The nightlife situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 New York, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
23 upvotes
Parker
accurate
22 upvotes
Hazel Diaz
hard disagree but ok
19 upvotes
real_isaac91
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 13 years. Moved from Seattle for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is improving - we have beaches 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 challenging. 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. Limited public transit options. Nightlife is limited. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Jaxon K.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Portland about 5 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Bugs and humidity in summer
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are established, gas is improving.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
17 upvotes
Parker Alvarez
Moved here from Baltimore about 8 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to traffic but Definitely worth checking out..
14 upvotes
Kennedy Miller
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
9 upvotes
Isaac J.
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cultural scene is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
7 upvotes
lake_connor1
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely excellent and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Highland) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
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