Hey everyone, We have two kids and Poverty rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Anyone in a similar situation?
5 upvotes
10 Replies
Ian Patel
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 2 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Bella White
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
35 upvotes
Isaiah
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 53, moved here 14 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in The Heights and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited shopping options
3. The public transit situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Tampa, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
33 upvotes
Brooklyn Watson
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 14 years. Moved from Raleigh for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - we have beaches 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. Limited high-paying job options. Road conditions need improvement. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Everly M.
this is the way
19 upvotes
Elizabeth Murphy
interesting, hadn't considered that
18 upvotes
Isla
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 15 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Cora Johnson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Houston it's surprisingly good.
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