Longtime lurker here, Rent is about $1,323/month for a decent place.
22 upvotes
11 Replies
Camila Rivera
I'm a data analyst and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
35 upvotes
nashvillemama2020
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Maple Ridge for 5 years. Moved from Boston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is decent - 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. Maple Ridge schools are pretty good. 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 a lot of cultural diversity. Far from beaches/mountains. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Scarlett Martinez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 38, moved here 4 years ago from LA. I've lived in Pine Hills and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The healthcare situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for singles. improving vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
26 upvotes
Brooks
Can confirm, been here 12 years.
24 upvotes
Emma Davis
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 8 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Meadowbrook side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
19 upvotes
Cora Jimenez
big facts right here
14 upvotes
Sadie G.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want food scene, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
12 upvotes
Beverly H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Austin about 7 years ago. The main reasons were school and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is excellent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. It's not for everyone but it works for us..