Alright, I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $350,900 on average. Poverty rate is 5.9%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Should I be concerned? Thanks! I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
23 upvotes
12 Replies
Carol C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely average and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Old Town) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
39 upvotes
Ezekiel Sanders
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 4 years. Moved from Baltimore for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2024 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
engineering 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 beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are decent. 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. Road conditions need improvement. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
lake_benjamin34
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
37 upvotes
Landon Smith
yeah no that's not right
33 upvotes
William
haha yep pretty much
18 upvotes
Grace P.
I'm a accountant and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
13 upvotes
Doris M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Sunset. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in government. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Lily Martin
thanks for sharing
10 upvotes
Xavier Martinez
I've lived in Highland for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The school system scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. No regrets on my end..
7 upvotes
Eric L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 30, moved here 7 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in The Heights and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The school system situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Atlanta, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
6 upvotes
Chloe Nguyen
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
4 upvotes
Ian Patel
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
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