Considering Murfreesboro vs Sacramento — help me decide
Hi all, I relocated for work and The unemployment rate is 2.6%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider — Murfreesboro sits at 418.7 per 100K. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this?
43 upvotes
3 Replies
true_jeremiah92
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 14 years. Moved from LA for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is average - we have hiking trails 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 job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Mackenzie Lopez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 50, moved here 15 years ago from Denver. I've lived in East and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The traffic situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Denver, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K 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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