Longtime lurker here, I work in consulting and Median household income is $62,511, which feels about average for the area. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I wrong here? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
12 upvotes
7 Replies
Eva J.
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
39 upvotes
Aaron R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 25, moved here 7 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in South and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Nice parks and green spaces
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited entertainment options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The nightlife situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Chicago, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
19 upvotes
Ellie
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Maple Ridge area are excellent. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Camila Jimenez
As someone who grew up here, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much wild but now it's surprisingly good.
10 upvotes
Alexa
+1
3 upvotes
Nathan S.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
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