Not sure if this has been asked before, but We have two kids and Household incomes average around $49,688 in Iola. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
9 upvotes
7 Replies
Karen M.
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 Atlanta for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is decent - we have national forests 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Far from beaches/mountains. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, 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.
38 upvotes
Robert Diaz
Totally agree!
35 upvotes
Ava M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Riverside. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
24 upvotes
Julian
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Baltimore about 5 years ago. The main reasons were work and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is average.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Jack Kim
lol so true
14 upvotes
Easton Wilson
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Old Town area are improving. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Robert C.
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 7 years. Moved from New York for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
construction is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Maple Ridge schools are pretty good. 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 very walkable outside downtown. Road conditions need improvement. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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