Moving from Albuquerque to Monrovia next month

Hailey Mar 2, 2025

OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a physical therapist, 39, moved here 6 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Westside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The healthcare situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Baltimore, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K here.

**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.

29 upvotes

Everett Morgan Mar 20, 2025

Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to San Francisco it's solid.

6 upvotes