Hey everyone, I work in education and It's a a smaller city city with about 26,509 people. Median household income is $127,247, which feels pretty solid for the area. Rent is about $1,614/month for a decent place. You can expect to pay around $1,614 for rent here. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. What do you all think? I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
12 upvotes
12 Replies
Liam
I'm a data analyst and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
Nevaeh Ortiz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 2 years. Moved from Dallas for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
tech 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:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is solid - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Homeless population growing downtown. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Kennedy Torres
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Oak Park area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Daniel Williams
hard disagree but ok
25 upvotes
charlotte_avery
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. community vibe used to be much growing but now it's better than expected.
22 upvotes
Sadie Carter
seconding this
17 upvotes
Christian T.
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
10 upvotes
Logan
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
6 upvotes
Everett James
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Springfield area are tough. Kids love it here.
5 upvotes
Ezekiel Gonzalez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 27, moved here 6 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Fairview and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The food scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for families. tough 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$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.
4 upvotes
Addison E.
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
4 upvotes
Lydia Roberts
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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