Been meaning to ask this. I'm a 50-year-old sales rep and Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Let me know your thoughts.
30 upvotes
11 Replies
tucsonnative2026
been saying this for years
34 upvotes
Allison Wood
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 15 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Christian Hill
I work in real estate here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is challenging. Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
James James
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The cultural scene is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Isabelle T.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 8 years. Moved from Chicago for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are hit or miss. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Road conditions need improvement. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Skylar Reyes
hard disagree but ok
27 upvotes
James
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 32, moved here 14 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Pine Hills and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Nice parks and green spaces
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The weather situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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
Roman B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 41, moved here 4 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in South and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The public transit situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K 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.
15 upvotes
sunny_kinsley91
great question, following
12 upvotes
Waylon Cox
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
8 upvotes
Colton Hill
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
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