I'm a 52-year-old data analyst and Homes are going for about $152,100 on average. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development.
11 upvotes
6 Replies
Camila B.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely challenging and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market 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.
25 upvotes
Amelia Hill
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Greenfield side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
21 upvotes
Jack
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 53, moved here 6 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Downtown and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Can feel isolated
3. The housing market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
21 upvotes
Kenneth S.
exactly what I was thinking
14 upvotes
Mackenzie Brooks
Can confirm, been here 1 years.
12 upvotes
sofia_soul
Bought a house here in 2018 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
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