First post here. I grew up here but left for a while. Median household income is $113,340, which feels pretty solid for the area. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Am I wrong here? Thanks for reading.
15 upvotes
14 Replies
Dominic Perez
100%
35 upvotes
Lucas Turner
I'm a lawyer and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is average and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
Mackenzie Campbell
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely improving and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Bugs and humidity in summer.
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.
29 upvotes
Gabriel Ross
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 13 years. Moved from Charlotte for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. 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 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is solid - 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 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited high-paying job options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Leo Ward
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Amelia
Moved here from Denver about 11 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to outdoor recreation but Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Weston Reed
thanks for sharing
20 upvotes
Mackenzie P.
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
17 upvotes
John Gonzalez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in West. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
16 upvotes
Adam L.
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in North area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
9 upvotes
Amelia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 41, moved here 4 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Uptown and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The housing market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for couples. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
5 upvotes
Weston Gray
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is underrated in most areas.
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