Anyone else feel this way? I'm originally from Austin and With a population of 7,023, Isanti is a small town. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. What would you do? Any help is appreciated. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
8 upvotes
12 Replies
Vivian
yep
39 upvotes
Isaiah Taylor
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great Asian places. it exceeded my expectations.
38 upvotes
Willie P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 10 years. Moved from Chicago for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is decent - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are underrated. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Joan N.
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
- The nightlife scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Zoe Diaz
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much wild but now it's surprisingly good.
30 upvotes
Logan Mitchell
yep
26 upvotes
Judith M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is tough in most areas.
24 upvotes
Ezekiel Sanders
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
18 upvotes
Grayson M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 44, moved here 10 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in The Heights and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The traffic situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for couples. decent vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 San Francisco, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
7 upvotes
nycdude2021
Moved here from Charlotte about 13 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to public transit but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
6 upvotes
Logan
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
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