First post here. Median household income is $124,000, which feels pretty solid for the area. The city has invested a lot in new development. Has anyone dealt with this? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
6 upvotes
13 Replies
Benjamin Martin
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 50, moved here 6 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Greenfield and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cost of living situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for remote workers. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Denver, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
39 upvotes
Avery Cruz
Moved here from Charlotte about 9 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to job market but Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Peyton Cruz
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
- The safety scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
32 upvotes
Brielle Wright
good to know, thanks
28 upvotes
Adeline Morgan
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
25 upvotes
Hazel Jimenez
I work in marketing here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is average. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
25 upvotes
Austin Ward
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
22 upvotes
Alexander Alvarez
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
16 upvotes
cooper_kid
yeah no that's not right
13 upvotes
oaklandnative2020
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 15 years. Moved from Chicago for work. 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Uptown 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. Winters are long and cold. Not a lot of cultural diversity. 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.
11 upvotes
Alice Reed
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
9 upvotes
Andrew M.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
2 upvotes
Samuel H.
I've lived in Old Town for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from LA, 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
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The nightlife scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
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