OK so Homes are going for about $252,200 on average. The median home value here is around $252,200, which seems about average. Average temperature is around 67--F, so the weather is moderate. You can expect to pay around $1,544 for rent here. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Am I overthinking this? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
12 upvotes
11 Replies
Edward M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 4 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
34 upvotes
Genesis W.
yeah no that's not right
27 upvotes
Jaxon Cox
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 29, moved here 5 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Old Town and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Affordable housing options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The nightlife situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for remote workers. 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 Atlanta, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K 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.
24 upvotes
Willow Young
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
5 upvotes
Olivia Sanders
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
5 upvotes
Adrian Brown
I'm a writer and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
4 upvotes
Emily Hall
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in West area are underrated. Kids love it here.
4 upvotes
Donna M.
it depends on the neighborhood
4 upvotes
Emilia Mendoza
yep
2 upvotes
Clara
Totally agree!
1 upvotes
Anna C.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Greenfield. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Indian.
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