Longtime lurker here, I'm retired and Rent is about $854/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 1.9%, which is pretty low. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Let me know your thoughts. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
9 upvotes
6 Replies
Lucy T.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in West. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 6 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
27 upvotes
Hailey
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 42, moved here 9 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Eastside and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The job market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
27 upvotes
Jacob Martin
accurate
20 upvotes
Xavier Parker
Bought a house here in 2020 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
19 upvotes
Santiago Jimenez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 49, moved here 3 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The safety situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 Tampa, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
4 upvotes
Nora Gray
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
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