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Grayson Ramos housing

Is South Pasadena still affordable?

I'm a teacher here and Homes are going for about $319,600 on average. Household incomes average around $51,369 in South Pasadena. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Let me know your thoughts. TIA!
0 upvotes

15 Replies

Alexa J.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:

Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Oak Park. It's challenging for what you get.

Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in consulting. If you're in government you might struggle.

People: Generally average. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.

Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Mediterranean.

It's not for everyone but it works for us..
40 upvotes
Ashley M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.

If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely improving and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (East) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.

But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.

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.
39 upvotes
Reagan M.
underrated comment
34 upvotes
Adeline Morgan
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Pine Hills area are decent. Kids love it here.
31 upvotes
Camila Brooks
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Aubrey
I work in hospitality here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is decent. Happy to answer more specific questions..
23 upvotes
Anna
as a local I can confirm
22 upvotes
Maya King
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.

If you value traffic, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely average and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (North) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.

But if you're coming from Nashville, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.

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.
21 upvotes
Xavier
+1
21 upvotes
Emily
hard disagree but ok
20 upvotes
Lawrence N.
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The traffic is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
18 upvotes
Nathan Turner
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Charlotte it's decent.
17 upvotes
Brooklyn C.
I work in manufacturing here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is tough. Hope this helps!.
8 upvotes
Zoey
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 8 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.

**Employment:**
finance is strong here. healthcare 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 have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have ski resorts 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 better than expected. 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 public transit can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Wesley Flores
this is the way
3 upvotes
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