OK so I grew up here but left for a while. The median home value here is around $178,100, which is actually reasonable. With a population of 9,030, Rice Lake is a small town. Homes are going for about $178,100 on average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Would love some local perspective. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
12 upvotes
15 Replies
Gabriella Jones
yeah no that's not right
30 upvotes
Lawrence L.
it depends on the neighborhood
28 upvotes
Piper C.
couldn't agree more
26 upvotes
Kayden Mendoza
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Raleigh about 13 years ago. The main reasons were school and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are manageable, gas is solid.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
Kennedy N.
noted, appreciate it
16 upvotes
Lily White
literally same
12 upvotes
Joseph Williams
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
11 upvotes
Brooklyn S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 58, moved here 7 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in West and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cultural scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Diego, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
7 upvotes
Emma P.
Came here for school and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The walkability is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
7 upvotes
Robert
thanks for sharing
6 upvotes
Robert Walker
glad someone said it
5 upvotes
Josiah Garcia
thanks for sharing
4 upvotes
Ryan L.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Tampa it's challenging.
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