Hey everyone, Household incomes average around $116,944 in Lake Mary. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Does this match your experience? Any help is appreciated. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
8 upvotes
9 Replies
Nicholas Phillips
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 9 years. Moved from Chicago for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is solid - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Highland schools are average. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited high-paying job options. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Ryan Nguyen
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
30 upvotes
Oliver Chavez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Dallas about 1 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Happy to answer more specific questions..
20 upvotes
Isabella E.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Maple Ridge for 12 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Maple Ridge schools are decent. 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. Property taxes are high. Limited entertainment options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Luke Baker
Bought a house here in 2021 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone about the same since then.
19 upvotes
Declan M.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Portland it's improving.
17 upvotes
real_skylar34
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
14 upvotes
Mackenzie
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from LA about 13 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are pricey, gas is challenging.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Definitely worth checking out..
12 upvotes
Aubrey Morales
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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