Hello, Is this normal for Progress? The food scene here is surprisingly good.
3 upvotes
13 Replies
Alexa Reed
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Maple Ridge. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in government. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Definitely worth checking out..
39 upvotes
Vivian Price
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor recreation is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
38 upvotes
Vivian T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 57, moved here 15 years ago from LA. I've lived in West and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good airport with direct flights
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. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The job market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K 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.
30 upvotes
Weston Rodriguez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
30 upvotes
Camila Taylor
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in East area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
19 upvotes
Donald R.
I'm a nurse and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
18 upvotes
Dylan K.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
17 upvotes
Adrian Collins
yeah no that's not right
9 upvotes
Isaiah Moore
yeah no that's not right
7 upvotes
Sophia L.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 9 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
2 upvotes
Ethan Watson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Nashville about 13 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is decent.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
1 upvotes
Charlotte Nelson
underrated comment
0 upvotes
Willow N.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Austin about 9 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Summers can be brutally hot
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is decent.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..