Random thought, I'm single, late 30s, and Household incomes average around $45,849 in Valdosta. Rent is about $1,000/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Am I wrong here? The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
18 upvotes
8 Replies
Aurora Robinson
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in South area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
Dylan R.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to New York it's excellent.
39 upvotes
Emmett Gomez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is excellent in most areas.
31 upvotes
Joshua Ruiz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Austin about 12 years ago. The main reasons were family and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is tough.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Happy to answer more specific questions..
27 upvotes
Andrew Reed
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Nashville about 11 years ago. The main reasons were family and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
18 upvotes
Paul W.
couldn't agree more
17 upvotes
Eli Morales
I've lived in Highland for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The pet-friendliness scene is tough
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..