Homes are going for about $318,100 on average. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
15 upvotes
14 Replies
Austin Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 57, moved here 8 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Fairview and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The school system situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for young professionals. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Portland, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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
Robert R.
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The safety is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
35 upvotes
Lily Morris
I work in finance here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Ariana Taylor
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 10 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Logan Campbell
I've lived in Westside for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- The community vibe scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
Ryan Gomez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
28 upvotes
Sophia Hernandez
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The dating scene is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Nova S.
lol so true
14 upvotes
Eliana Nguyen
Used to live on the Old Town side, now on the Midtown side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
13 upvotes
Kathleen T.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
13 upvotes
Luca Howard
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 12 years. Moved from New York for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are solid. 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. Limited high-paying job options. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Emily Gutierrez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
Jose K.
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
5 upvotes
Mia Cox
Came here for work and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The cost of living is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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