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Cora Moore living

Raising a family in Woodbridge -thoughts?

Anyone else feel this way? I'm retired and You can expect to pay around $1,985 for rent here. The median home value here is around $395,400, which seems about average. With a population of 43,443, Woodbridge is a smaller city. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.

Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Good job market
- Close to nature
- Strong sense of community
- Walkable downtown

Cons:
- Limited public transit
- Rising rent prices
- Sprawl everywhere
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Not enough green space
Has anyone dealt with this? TIA! Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
26 upvotes

3 Replies

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

Background: I'm a lawyer, 54, moved here 6 years ago from Portland. I've lived in South and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited shopping options
3. The food scene situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K 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.
23 upvotes
Isaiah Scott
Totally agree!
6 upvotes
Alice
it depends on the neighborhood
1 upvotes
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