Curious what people think. My family moved here when I was a kid. Poverty rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 43--F, so bundle up in winter. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Am I overthinking this? The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
5 upvotes
13 Replies
Aaron M.
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
34 upvotes
Ezekiel Sanchez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 53, moved here 1 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Greenfield and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Portland, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K 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.
32 upvotes
Alexa Adams
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 11 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2017 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is decent - we have rivers 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 challenging. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited entertainment options. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Adam
100%
29 upvotes
Claire Hill
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to San Diego it's decent.
29 upvotes
Michael Bennett
I've lived in South for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
- The food scene scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Weston J.
following this thread
25 upvotes
Aubrey L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 8 years. Moved from San Diego for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2022 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. consulting 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is average - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are underrated. 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. Limited shopping options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Caleb Jackson
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Highland area are challenging. Kids love it here.
15 upvotes
Madelyn
Moved here from Tampa about 12 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to traffic but Definitely worth checking out..
15 upvotes
Cameron Lopez
Totally agree!
10 upvotes
Isabella
+1
8 upvotes
Piper Flores
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 45, moved here 6 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Uptown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Miami, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K 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.
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