Average temperature is around 65--F, so the weather is moderate. Homes are going for about $391,600 on average. It's a a smaller city city with about 54,756 people. With a population of 54,756, San Jacinto is a smaller city. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Does this match your experience? Appreciate any input. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
17 Replies
Sophie Kelly
following this thread
36 upvotes
Madelyn T.
I've lived in Highland for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- The traffic scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
36 upvotes
Sophie Chavez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely pretty good and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
33 upvotes
Rylee Kim
Came here for family and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The weather is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
31 upvotes
Landon D.
Used to live on the The Heights side, now on the South side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
31 upvotes
Audrey B.
I've lived in Lakewood for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The cultural scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Hope this helps!.
27 upvotes
Madison J.
I'm a nurse and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
Hunter Edwards
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 Portland for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests 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 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. Limited public transit options. Chain restaurants dominate. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Jack
wish I knew this sooner
20 upvotes
Bella Clark
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 1 years. Moved from Tampa for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside 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. Limited shopping options. Limited entertainment options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Paisley Evans
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 55, moved here 3 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in The Heights and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Close to major attractions
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The outdoor recreation situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for families. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Baltimore, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K 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
cora_dude
I work in real estate here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is better than expected. Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Rylee Wright
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Denver about 3 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
12 upvotes
Henry Young
Moved here from Houston about 1 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to traffic but Good luck with whatever you decide..
7 upvotes
Colton Hill
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is tough in most areas.
5 upvotes
Autumn Allen
interesting, hadn't considered that
4 upvotes
Jordan Phillips
I've lived in Old Town for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The cultural scene scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
All Countries
