You can expect to pay around $1,803 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 4.3%, which is about average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. Worth the trade-offs? The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
34 upvotes
17 Replies
Kathleen E.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 10 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into running, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
40 upvotes
Nicholas C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 6 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
40 upvotes
Leo Ward
seconding this
38 upvotes
Landon
it depends on the neighborhood
33 upvotes
Mateo White
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Santiago Campbell
Bought a house here in 2017 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone about the same since then.
29 upvotes
Noah Foster
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great Mediterranean places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
26 upvotes
Katherine Nguyen
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
Hailey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 7 years. Moved from LA for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2024 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is tough - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North 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. Limited high-paying job options. Limited shopping options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Aiden R.
exactly what I was thinking
15 upvotes
Ellie C.
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
15 upvotes
Ruth P.
been saying this for years
14 upvotes
Leah W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 53, moved here 15 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The public transit situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
14 upvotes
Jayden Lee
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
Valentina Evans
big facts right here
7 upvotes
Michael Ramirez
Can confirm, been here 15 years.
6 upvotes
Claire Walker
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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