Hello, Poverty rate is 16.7%, which is higher than I expected. Rent is about $1,085/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $1,085 for rent here. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Am I overthinking this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
14 upvotes
7 Replies
Isabelle Morales
Bought a house here in 2021 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
37 upvotes
Caleb Perez
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Maple Ridge area are tough. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
Bella Adams
Moved here from Baltimore about 1 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to job market but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
26 upvotes
Kimberly G.
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
22 upvotes
Hudson Martinez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 15 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. healthcare 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is decent - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are hit or miss. 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. Property taxes are high. Limited entertainment options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Nova Johnson
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
10 upvotes
Camila Kim
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 25, moved here 6 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in South and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Lots of new development happening
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. Limited high-paying job options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The school system situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for singles. pretty good 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 Chicago, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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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