Hi all, Median household income is $239,205, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 2.0%, which is pretty low. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Would love some local perspective. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
12 upvotes
11 Replies
Oliver Green
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Westside) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
36 upvotes
Naomi Garcia
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
36 upvotes
Aurora Clark
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 1 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Ezekiel Baker
Bought a house here in 2021 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone about the same since then.
30 upvotes
Julian A.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 9 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
28 upvotes
Levi Price
spot on
27 upvotes
Levi
This.
22 upvotes
Landon King
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 31, moved here 1 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Uptown and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The cost of living situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Baltimore, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
20 upvotes
proud_hunter55
facts
15 upvotes
Hannah Lopez
Moved here from Nashville about 3 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to healthcare but No regrets on my end..
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