Random thought, I'm a 53-year-old graphic designer and Median household income is $119,880, which feels pretty solid for the area. Rent is about $1,219/month for a decent place. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Anyone in a similar situation? Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
6 upvotes
13 Replies
Kennedy Jackson
hard disagree but ok
37 upvotes
Hannah C.
as a local I can confirm
36 upvotes
Henry Walker
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
35 upvotes
Rylee Scott
I work in tech here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is underrated. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Samantha B.
Came here for school and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The housing market is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
32 upvotes
Mateo T.
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The dating scene is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
30 upvotes
Stella T.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 12 years. Moved from Charlotte for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Highland schools are surprisingly 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. Nightlife is limited. Bugs and humidity in summer. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Chloe W.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to San Diego it's better than expected.
19 upvotes
Camila Mendoza
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The cultural scene is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
18 upvotes
Aaron Evans
lol so true
11 upvotes
Elena H.
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
5 upvotes
Gabriella A.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Charlotte about 7 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is solid.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Rylee Bailey
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 54, moved here 2 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Uptown and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The community vibe situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for remote workers. average 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 San Francisco, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
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