Longtime lurker here, Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. Crime rate is something to consider -Livingston sits at 273.8 per 100K. Homes are going for about $339,800 on average. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Has anyone dealt with this? TIA! There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development.
6 upvotes
11 Replies
Connor L.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from LA and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Riverside. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
William M.
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
26 upvotes
Aurora
I'm a data analyst and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
22 upvotes
Victoria C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is tough in most areas.
21 upvotes
Jackson R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Raleigh about 12 years ago. The main reasons were family and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is solid.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. No regrets on my end..
15 upvotes
Aiden Watson
spot on
12 upvotes
mesadude2024
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 30, moved here 7 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Oak Park and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
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. Nightlife is limited
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The school system situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
5 upvotes
Ella Wilson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 15 years. Moved from Seattle for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. 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 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. The Heights schools are underrated. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
5 upvotes
Eli P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 13 years. Moved from New York for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. 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 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. Highland 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. Winters are long and cold. Far from beaches/mountains. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
1 upvotes
William James
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- The nightlife scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
1 upvotes
Robert L.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 4 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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