Longtime lurker here, Median household income is $101,023, which feels pretty solid for the area. With a population of 22,829, Ramona is a small town. The median home value here is around $704,500, which is pretty steep. Average temperature is around 61--F, so the weather is moderate. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What do you all think? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development.
9 upvotes
9 Replies
everly_local
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 9 years. Moved from Baltimore for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is decent - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are better than expected. 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. Limited shopping options. Far from beaches/mountains. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
cooper_kid
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
27 upvotes
Sophia
it depends on the neighborhood
27 upvotes
Luca P.
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much growing but now it's improving.
22 upvotes
Laura R.
I work in construction here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is challenging. Happy to answer more specific questions..
21 upvotes
Emma Williams
good to know, thanks
21 upvotes
Caroline Morris
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
16 upvotes
Hannah Stewart
hmm interesting perspective
3 upvotes
Maverick Watson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 9 years. Moved from Boston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. Meadowbrook schools are excellent. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Homeless population growing downtown. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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