Longtime lurker here, We have two kids and Crime rate is something to consider — Visalia sits at 434.2 per 100K. Homes are going for about $340,600 on average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Any advice would be great. Thanks! People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
12 upvotes
15 Replies
Ezekiel Anderson
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in North area are tough. Kids love it here.
39 upvotes
Leah Martinez
it depends on the neighborhood
36 upvotes
Clara Brooks
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 Seattle for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. finance 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 love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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 hit or miss. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Far from beaches/mountains. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Jerry A.
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
34 upvotes
Amelia Morgan
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
32 upvotes
Samuel Brown
same here
30 upvotes
Ava S.
yep
22 upvotes
Ethan Cox
I've lived in Fairview for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The pet-friendliness scene is average
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
Harper Kim
100%
15 upvotes
nyc_william
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
- The job market scene is tough
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
13 upvotes
Harper Young
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Highland area are decent. Kids love it here.
12 upvotes
Hunter Thomas
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
Jacob Sanchez
+1
8 upvotes
Delilah Brooks
I've lived in Old Town for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong job market in several industries
- The public transit scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
4 upvotes
Anna Howard
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
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