Been meaning to ask this. I'm a remote worker and Crime rate is something to consider -Pine Hills sits at 344.8 per 100K. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development.
4 upvotes
19 Replies
Caleb Brooks
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Pine Hills. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
39 upvotes
Sophia Murphy
exactly what I was thinking
39 upvotes
Mason Kim
I've lived in Uptown for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- The healthcare scene is decent
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Ellie M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 6 years. Moved from Tampa for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
tech is strong here. marketing 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 improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are underrated. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Can feel isolated. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Bennett Taylor
I've lived in Highland for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Affordable housing options
- The healthcare scene is solid
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
jax_greyson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is improving in most areas.
14 upvotes
Eva
This.
14 upvotes
Axel King
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..
13 upvotes
Roman Rodriguez
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Fairview area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
9 upvotes
Kinsley Bailey
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great seafood places. it's been a really good experience overall.
8 upvotes
Rylee Campbell
Moved here from Austin about 4 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to nightlife but Good luck with whatever you decide..
8 upvotes
Zoey Hill
Used to live on the Old Town side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
8 upvotes
Vivian Thomas
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
6 upvotes
Grayson Wood
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 35, moved here 3 years ago from Miami. I've lived in The Heights and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The walkability situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Miami, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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
Ezekiel G.
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
5 upvotes
Jameson Torres
spot on
4 upvotes
Adrian Cooper
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is challenging in most areas.
4 upvotes
Mia Wright
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
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