Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and Poverty rate is 6.7%, which is pretty low. It's a a mid-size city city with about 198K people. Average temperature is around 49°F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $271,400 on average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. Anyone in a similar situation? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
36 upvotes
12 Replies
Hailey T.
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The housing market scene is tough
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
38 upvotes
Genesis Morgan
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The pet-friendliness is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Jack Parker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 41, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The dating scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
30 upvotes
Addison Garcia
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Uptown area are decent. Kids love it here.
30 upvotes
Allison Martinez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to Salt Lake City it's decent.
29 upvotes
Cora Ruiz
thanks for sharing
26 upvotes
Abigail M.
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Indian places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
15 upvotes
Elizabeth
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Meadowbrook area are improving. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Dominic G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 44, moved here 12 years ago from New York. I've lived in East and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The weather situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 New York, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
11 upvotes
Evelyn Perez
I've lived in Lakewood for about 1 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 Phoenix, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- The traffic scene is solid
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. No regrets on my end..
All Countries
