I'm originally from Salt Lake City and The unemployment rate is 3.3%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to.
15 upvotes
15 Replies
Paul M.
Came here for school and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The public transit is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
33 upvotes
Everly
I work in tech here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is average. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
32 upvotes
Angel Green
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great Mediterranean places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
27 upvotes
Ruby Campbell
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 43, moved here 15 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Highland and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The traffic situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Austin, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
24 upvotes
Victoria P.
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 12 years. Moved from Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes 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 excellent. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Bugs and humidity in summer. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Genesis Cook
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
17 upvotes
Grace Collins
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
15 upvotes
Theodore C.
Totally agree!
14 upvotes
Cora R.
exactly what I was thinking
14 upvotes
Ariana
Moved here last year, no regrets.
13 upvotes
Carter Brooks
+1
12 upvotes
Wyatt Martin
underrated comment
7 upvotes
Ashley O.
literally same
5 upvotes
Lillian Brown
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from San Francisco about 6 years ago. The main reasons were work and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are affordable, gas is tough.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Hope this helps!.
All Countries
