OK so Military spouse here. Rent is about $1,383/month for a decent place. The median home value here is around $265,100, which seems about average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
14 upvotes
15 Replies
Cora
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 7 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
37 upvotes
Avery
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 10 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into running, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
37 upvotes
Parker
I'm a software engineer and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
Sophie Carter
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
33 upvotes
Oliver Lopez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
32 upvotes
Isabelle Morgan
I'm a electrician and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
31 upvotes
Sebastian Hernandez
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- The community vibe scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
30 upvotes
hudson_runner
I've lived in Westside for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Close to major attractions
- The healthcare scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
24 upvotes
Maverick Ramos
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if cost of living matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
21 upvotes
Alice Sanchez
Bought a house here in 2016 and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Property values have gone about the same since then.
19 upvotes
Everly
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. dating scene used to be much pricey but now it's pretty good.
18 upvotes
Cora H.
honestly same experience here
16 upvotes
Cooper C.
wish I knew this sooner
11 upvotes
Daniel H.
glad someone said it
10 upvotes
Sofia Brown
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
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