Hey folks, Median household income is $38,607, which feels on the lower side for the area. The unemployment rate is 3.5%, which is pretty low. It's a a small town city with about 12,564 people. You can expect to pay around $1,066 for rent here. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Has anyone dealt with this? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
15 upvotes
15 Replies
Alexander Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 54, moved here 2 years ago from LA. I've lived in Westside and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Close to major attractions
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The healthcare situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for remote workers. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 LA, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
38 upvotes
Xavier Jackson
bump
38 upvotes
Hunter Hughes
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 8 years. Moved from Portland for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is tough - we have state parks 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 better than expected. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Road conditions need improvement. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Amanda T.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
26 upvotes
urban_emily61
accurate
26 upvotes
Maya Price
big facts right here
19 upvotes
Nathan P.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
17 upvotes
Connor R.
couldn't agree more
16 upvotes
Harper R.
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. community vibe used to be much established but now it's better than expected.
16 upvotes
Sadie Edwards
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great farm-to-table places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
14 upvotes
Luke
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
10 upvotes
Elijah Ruiz
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much manageable but now it's tough.
8 upvotes
silas_life
Saving this thread
6 upvotes
Benjamin G.
thanks for sharing
3 upvotes
Stella F.
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
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