Longtime lurker here, It's a a small town city with about 24,678 people. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Worth the trade-offs? Cheers. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
7 upvotes
7 Replies
Charlotte N.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 2 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
31 upvotes
Aubrey
exactly what I was thinking
26 upvotes
seattle_miles
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 9 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
18 upvotes
Santiago Morris
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 42, moved here 6 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in The Heights and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The public transit situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 San Francisco, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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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