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Gianna Taylor best-worst

Things Ward needs to improve

Hey, I'm originally from Memphis and Median household income is $78,841, which feels about average for the area. With a population of 6,367, Ward is a small town. Poverty rate is 14.3%, which is around average. The unemployment rate is 4.4%, which is about average. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to.

Pros:
- Close to nature
- Diverse community
- Low taxes
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure

Cons:
- Rising rent prices
- Limited dining options
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Limited cultural events
- Chain restaurants dominate
What are your go-to spots? TIA! There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
0 upvotes

2 Replies

Elijah Ruiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a chef, 43, moved here 14 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in North and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The safety situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K 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.
38 upvotes
Aurora Davis
exactly what I was thinking
30 upvotes
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