Poverty rate is 16.8%, which is higher than I expected. Should I be concerned? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
2 upvotes
13 Replies
mackenzie_life
been saying this for years
37 upvotes
Ezekiel Davis
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The public transit is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
local_theodore86
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 29, moved here 12 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Affordable housing options
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Limited shopping options
3. The food scene situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Miami, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K 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.
29 upvotes
Kaylee Cooper
I've lived in The Heights for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The weather scene is solid
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
28 upvotes
Autumn Chavez
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
28 upvotes
Leo M.
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
27 upvotes
Grace Martinez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely excellent and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
19 upvotes
Mia Chavez
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
17 upvotes
Adrian P.
literally same
16 upvotes
Adam Flores
Moved here from Miami about 1 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to traffic but Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Nevaeh R.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to San Francisco it's challenging.
14 upvotes
Axel Ross
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Sunset) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
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.
10 upvotes
Julian Cook
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
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