Born and raised here. Median household income is $73,704, which feels about average for the area. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What do you all think? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
8 upvotes
12 Replies
Christian Allen
it depends on the neighborhood
38 upvotes
wild_violet50
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Katherine Hughes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 4 years. Moved from Atlanta for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is decent - 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. South schools are decent. 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. Nightlife is limited. Limited entertainment options. And dating scene 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.
25 upvotes
Ezra
facts
17 upvotes
Leah Rivera
lol so true
16 upvotes
Harper James
Saving this thread
14 upvotes
Kinsley Green
glad someone said it
13 upvotes
Colton Jones
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Maple Ridge for 10 years. Moved from Atlanta for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Maple Ridge 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. Road conditions need improvement. Homeless population growing downtown. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
Gianna
Bought a house here in 2016 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone about the same since then.
7 upvotes
Santiago Hall
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 10 years. Moved from Minneapolis for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park 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. Limited public transit options. Limited high-paying job options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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