Anyone else feel this way? The unemployment rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. With a population of 185K, Newport News is a mid-size city. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
40 upvotes
14 Replies
Genesis Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 10 years. Moved from San Diego for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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 excellent. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Chain restaurants dominate. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Brielle Sanchez
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great craft beer places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
34 upvotes
Clara J.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
34 upvotes
dcliving2021
lol so true
32 upvotes
Victoria Thompson
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
31 upvotes
Stella Hughes
+1
18 upvotes
dc_skylar
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 10 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
oaklandlover2025
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Everett
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it's been a really good experience overall.
9 upvotes
lake_delilah43
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
5 upvotes
Ethan R.
+1
3 upvotes
Ryan R.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
3 upvotes
local_rylee40
Bought a house here in 2016 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
2 upvotes
Emily F.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 6 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to community vibe but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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