Random thought, I'm a 38-year-old electrician and The unemployment rate is 5.7%, which is about average. Average temperature is around 67°F, so the weather is moderate. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Should I be concerned?
13 upvotes
8 Replies
Sophia Harris
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
31 upvotes
Valentina
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Dallas and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Old Town. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in retail. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like sushi.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Levi
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Baltimore and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Maple Ridge. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in marketing. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
Mason Price
Used to live on the Maple Ridge side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
19 upvotes
Addison R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 8 years. Moved from Minneapolis for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. 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 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Meadowbrook schools are improving. 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. Winters are long and cold. Bugs and humidity in summer. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Isaac King
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
18 upvotes
audrey_dude
hmm interesting perspective
14 upvotes
Leonardo Parker
Bought a house here in 2018 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
All Countries
