The unemployment rate is 4.2%, which is about average. Crime rate is something to consider -La Mesa sits at 290.7 per 100K. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What are your go-to spots? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
14 upvotes
2 Replies
Ellie Cox
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 13 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
36 upvotes
Maya M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 2 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.