My family moved here when I was a kid. Poverty rate is 5.3%, which is pretty low. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Does this match your experience?
2 upvotes
10 Replies
John Reed
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
26 upvotes
Bennett
100%
23 upvotes
Walter T.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 13 years. Moved from Chicago for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. engineering 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 genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Limited shopping options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Gianna Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 56, moved here 14 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The safety situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Francisco, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K 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.
16 upvotes
Hailey Cruz
lol so true
15 upvotes
Xavier
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. community vibe used to be much growing but now it's improving.
13 upvotes
Emmett Ramirez
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
11 upvotes
Everly Ruiz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Dallas about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is underrated.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
10 upvotes
Elizabeth
Moved here last year, no regrets.
4 upvotes
Theodore
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
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