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Aubrey Long housing

Rent vs buy in Newport -what makes sense?

Hello, I've been here for 7 years and Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Household incomes average around $83,562 in Newport. Rent is about $1,612/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 5.6%, which is about average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up.

Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Great weather
- Good job market
- Diverse community
- Active local events

Cons:
- Sprawl everywhere
- Lack of diversity
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Poor road conditions
- Mosquitoes and humidity
Let me know your thoughts. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
15 upvotes

5 Replies

born_charlotte26
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if weather matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
37 upvotes
Ruby A.
100%
26 upvotes
Eleanor R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Highland for 5 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.

**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have mountains 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 pretty good. 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. Limited high-paying job options. And school system can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Isaiah
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.

I've been here 1 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.

That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is underrated.

Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.

It's not for everyone but it works for us..
13 upvotes
Reagan White
Can confirm, been here 2 years.
2 upvotes
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