First post here. My family moved here when I was a kid. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $343,900 on average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What are your go-to spots? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
4 upvotes
10 Replies
Theresa A.
I'm a software engineer and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is average and there's always something going on.
35 upvotes
Delilah R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
32 upvotes
Aaliyah Mendoza
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 6 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Jameson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to San Francisco it's tough.
27 upvotes
Mateo Thompson
bump
26 upvotes
desert_ella26
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 37, moved here 3 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Old Town and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The job market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
26 upvotes
Silas Edwards
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 51, moved here 5 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Old Town and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The weather situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for singles. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
19 upvotes
lake_riley16
Totally agree!
14 upvotes
oakland_ezekiel
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.
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