Been meaning to ask this. We have two kids and It's a a smaller city city with about 29,143 people. Poverty rate is 7.0%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Am I wrong here? Thanks!
25 upvotes
12 Replies
Leo Garcia
Used to live on the South side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
37 upvotes
Eleanor L.
spot on
35 upvotes
Carter Sanchez
as a local I can confirm
33 upvotes
Santiago Martin
as a local I can confirm
31 upvotes
Sara C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 29, moved here 2 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The dating scene situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Nashville, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
29 upvotes
Luna Rivera
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
27 upvotes
Aria Ward
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Leo Cook
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Maple Ridge area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
22 upvotes
Sophia Morales
Can confirm, been here 5 years.
21 upvotes
John Cooper
Bought a house here in 2022 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
12 upvotes
Carson
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is school system. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
5 upvotes
Jason W.
Came here for weather and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The food scene is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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