So, Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. With a population of 20,703, Montrose is a small town. Homes are going for about $359,000 on average. Median household income is $63,177, which feels about average for the area. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
11 upvotes
13 Replies
oakland_kayden
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
Matthew Sanchez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
39 upvotes
Samuel Miller
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely average and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (South) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
33 upvotes
Michael H.
100%
31 upvotes
Megan C.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
29 upvotes
Austin Gonzalez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 9 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Leo Sanders
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Highland) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
28 upvotes
living_adeline19
Can confirm, been here 5 years.
18 upvotes
Kennedy Mendoza
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Portland about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is decent.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
13 upvotes
Isabelle Baker
Can confirm, been here 10 years.
9 upvotes
urban_john46
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 5 years. Moved from Chicago for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Maple Ridge schools are surprisingly good. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
6 upvotes
Weston Castillo
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 51, moved here 2 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Old Town and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The school system situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Houston, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
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