Anyone else feel this way? Poverty rate is 18.7%, which is higher than I expected. The unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is about average. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? Cheers.
29 upvotes
11 Replies
wild_rylee67
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
39 upvotes
Landon
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
32 upvotes
Claire Jimenez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Minneapolis it's pretty good.
31 upvotes
Daniel Martinez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 12 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
23 upvotes
Julian Lee
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Joseph Evans
hmm interesting perspective
19 upvotes
Dominic Turner
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Houston about 8 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Kayla O.
preach
16 upvotes
wild_aaliyah4
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Mackenzie Ortiz
interesting, hadn't considered that
10 upvotes
Lillian Wright
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely improving and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Midtown) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
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