First post here. I work in consulting and Median household income is $48,965, which feels on the lower side for the area. The median home value here is around $164,500, which is actually reasonable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Worth the trade-offs?
23 upvotes
5 Replies
Jonathan Foster
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
32 upvotes
Mateo Ward
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 49, moved here 5 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Affordable housing options
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The cost of living situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Portland, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
23 upvotes
Donna G.
noted, appreciate it
22 upvotes
Everly D.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
20 upvotes
David Nelson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Tampa about 1 years ago. The main reasons were weather and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are established, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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