Random thought, The median home value here is around $165,300, which is actually reasonable. Median household income is $53,038, which feels on the lower side for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
6 upvotes
9 Replies
Genesis
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 11 years. Moved from San Diego for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Maple Ridge 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. Property taxes are high. Homeless population growing downtown. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Julia Jones
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely decent and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene 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.
27 upvotes
Violet
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
27 upvotes
Mason Morgan
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
26 upvotes
Violet Ramos
I've lived in East for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good airport with direct flights
- The walkability scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Definitely worth checking out..
23 upvotes
mountain_theodore5
100%
7 upvotes
Madelyn Robinson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
3 upvotes
Sadie Davis
I've lived in Westside for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The walkability scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Feel free to reach out with questions..
2 upvotes
Jaxon Turner
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 1 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Eastside. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in government. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Southern.
All Countries
