My family moved here when I was a kid. Poverty rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $693/month for a decent place. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Anyone in a similar situation? Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
2 upvotes
12 Replies
Hannah Mitchell
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 7 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. education 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 wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have mountains 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 average. 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. Limited public transit options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
James B.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 15 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Skylar Williams
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Austin about 11 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
30 upvotes
Carter Brooks
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
Cora Brown
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
24 upvotes
Naomi Brown
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great farm-to-table places. the quality of life is solid.
19 upvotes
Ella Ross
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
11 upvotes
nolalocal2021
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
10 upvotes
Mia M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is tough.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
Mackenzie Lee
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Happy to answer more specific questions..
4 upvotes
William M.
I work in education here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is underrated. No regrets on my end..
1 upvotes
atllocal2024
I've lived in North for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- The healthcare scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Rising rent and home prices
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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