Hey, Born and raised here. Homes are going for about $233,600 on average. The median home value here is around $233,600, which is actually reasonable. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $1,235/month for a decent place. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Anyone in a similar situation? Any help is appreciated. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
9 upvotes
14 Replies
Madelyn Green
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 14 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are wild, gas is underrated.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
33 upvotes
Autumn Wilson
I'm a nurse and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is average and there's always something going on.
32 upvotes
Olivia C.
accurate
30 upvotes
Gabriel Sanders
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is decent in most areas.
30 upvotes
Ruby Torres
Used to live on the West side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
29 upvotes
Grace Foster
been saying this for years
29 upvotes
Clara B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 5 years. Moved from Houston for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. South schools are average. 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 a lot of cultural diversity. Can feel isolated. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Steven J.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 36, moved here 13 years ago from New York. I've lived in Maple Ridge and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
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. Nightlife is limited
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The healthcare situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. underrated 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 New York, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
26 upvotes
Daniel Rivera
Saving this thread
24 upvotes
Isabella R.
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great seafood places. it exceeded my expectations.
22 upvotes
Cora Young
Saving this thread
22 upvotes
Mateo
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
- The food scene scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for singles. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
19 upvotes
Jack C.
following this thread
9 upvotes
Colton C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from San Francisco about 14 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Definitely worth checking out..
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