Hey folks, I'm a college student here and Median household income is $61,025, which feels about average for the area. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Should I be concerned? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
14 upvotes
14 Replies
Scarlett Cook
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is decent in most areas.
40 upvotes
Skylar Collins
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
39 upvotes
Landon M.
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
38 upvotes
Ella Cruz
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely improving and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
30 upvotes
Sarah H.
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
25 upvotes
Andrew Wood
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 9 years. Moved from Boston for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
consulting is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. The Heights schools are better than expected. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Nightlife is limited. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
James Moore
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 4 years. Moved from Phoenix for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. healthcare 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 have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are excellent. 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. Limited entertainment options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Miles Sanders
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 43, moved here 1 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Oak Park and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The community vibe situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Miami, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K 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.
13 upvotes
Zoe Chavez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is underrated in most areas.
12 upvotes
Amelia Hernandez
Used to live on the East side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
7 upvotes
Sarah R.
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 13 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to public transit but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
5 upvotes
zoey_chef
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Greenfield side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
3 upvotes
Isabella Collins
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The food scene is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
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