OK so You can expect to pay around $2,129 for rent here. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Am I wrong here?
15 upvotes
10 Replies
Sharon M.
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- The healthcare scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
lucy_native
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
39 upvotes
Gianna Ross
underrated comment
34 upvotes
Jackson Rodriguez
Bought a house here in 2018 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
33 upvotes
Ella
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 30, moved here 15 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The weather situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Chicago, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
30 upvotes
Jordan T.
I've lived in Midtown for about 11 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 Atlanta, I was surprised by public transit. 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 traffic scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
25 upvotes
Charlotte Chavez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 15 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is decent - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are improving. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Adrian Moore
yeah no that's not right
19 upvotes
jose_vibes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 10 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have hiking trails 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 improving. 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. Road conditions need improvement. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.