Random thought, Poverty rate is 12.2%, which is around average. The median home value here is around $559,300, which is pretty steep. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
22 upvotes
8 Replies
Roman Long
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 15 years. Moved from Charlotte for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Highland schools are underrated. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Robert Taylor
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 45, moved here 8 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Close to major attractions
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The walkability situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for young professionals. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Portland, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
21 upvotes
Betty R.
nah I disagree
15 upvotes
Landon
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 46, moved here 3 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Pine Hills and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The public transit situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for remote workers. average vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Houston, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
14 upvotes
Mason Lewis
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- The job market scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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