Hello, I'm a college student here and Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
13 upvotes
13 Replies
Isabella W.
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 Miami for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have rivers 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 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. Urban sprawl is real. Chain restaurants dominate. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
logan_rider
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Salt Lake City it's surprisingly good.
40 upvotes
Lucy Young
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 34, moved here 1 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Springfield and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The dating scene situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Phoenix, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$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.
35 upvotes
Julian Reed
Can confirm, been here 11 years.
30 upvotes
Ruby S.
I've lived in Fairview for about 4 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 Houston, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Active local events and festivals
- The pet-friendliness scene is tough
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
Jordan Ross
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
23 upvotes
Mia Cox
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
23 upvotes
William A.
I've lived in Springfield for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The healthcare scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
22 upvotes
Everett Kim
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is challenging in most areas.
17 upvotes
Jaxon Reed
haha yep pretty much
12 upvotes
Jordan Ross
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely better than expected and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Eastside) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
5 upvotes
Charlotte Lewis
Used to live on the East side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
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