OK so Median household income is $143,125, which feels pretty solid for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What are your go-to spots?
5 upvotes
11 Replies
Roman Reyes
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Atlanta about 10 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
37 upvotes
Eli Sanchez
exactly what I was thinking
31 upvotes
Leah Adams
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
Jayden Clark
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 45, moved here 8 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for young professionals. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Raleigh, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
16 upvotes
Colton Hill
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Active local events and festivals
- The public transit scene is decent
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Feel free to reach out with questions..
10 upvotes
Everett Johnson
Saving this thread
8 upvotes
Nicholas Scott
I'm a electrician and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
7 upvotes
oaklandgirl2022
Bought a house here in 2021 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
5 upvotes
Maverick Ortiz
I work in engineering here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Good luck with whatever you decide..
2 upvotes
Ava
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is school system. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
1 upvotes
Bella Reed
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Baltimore it's hit or miss.
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