We have two kids and You can expect to pay around $2,680 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -Bensville sits at 516.5 per 100K. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Would love some local perspective. Cheers.
3 upvotes
7 Replies
Ryan Morgan
Came here for retirement and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The housing market is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
38 upvotes
savannah_mind
same here
35 upvotes
Everly Murphy
been saying this for years
26 upvotes
Patricia S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 13 years. Moved from San Diego for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. 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 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. North schools are challenging. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Chain restaurants dominate. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Alice Martinez
couldn't agree more
15 upvotes
Isla Price
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Maple Ridge. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in real estate. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
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