Longtime lurker here, Homes are going for about $398,600 on average.
5 upvotes
8 Replies
Ethan
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Springfield. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in engineering. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 6 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Asher
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 7 years. Moved from San Diego for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2015 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:**
manufacturing 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 improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is average - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Highland schools are improving. 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. Nightlife is limited. Homeless population growing downtown. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Adam D.
Bought a house here in 2016 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
33 upvotes
Ezekiel Cruz
big facts right here
24 upvotes
Evan Young
I'm a teacher and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
14 upvotes
Audrey Martin
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
12 upvotes
Piper D.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 1 years ago from Charlotte and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Uptown. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in construction. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
8 upvotes
Mason Garcia
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great Vietnamese places. it was the best decision I ever made.