Alright, My partner and I are Average temperature is around 55--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $2,453 for rent here. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. What do you all think? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development.
14 upvotes
9 Replies
Sebastian Nelson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 45, moved here 3 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Lakewood and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The weather situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
40 upvotes
Everly W.
seconding this
40 upvotes
Luca Phillips
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
26 upvotes
Colton
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
20 upvotes
Ian S.
Came here for weather and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The walkability is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
8 upvotes
cool_evan7
nah I disagree
3 upvotes
Autumn W.
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good airport with direct flights
- Diverse dining options
- The housing market scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. No regrets on my end..
2 upvotes
Weston Martin
I work in government here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is improving. Good luck with whatever you decide..
1 upvotes
Samuel Davis
I've lived in Highland for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- The community vibe scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. No regrets on my end..
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