Hey folks, I'm retired and Household incomes average around $66,071 in Atwater. Homes are going for about $144,300 on average. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Should I be concerned? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
7 upvotes
13 Replies
Isaiah Ortiz
I've lived in Eastside for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Affordable housing options
- The outdoor recreation scene is solid
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
31 upvotes
Luca R.
hmm interesting perspective
30 upvotes
Levi Thomas
wish I knew this sooner
30 upvotes
Grace Rogers
Can confirm, been here 14 years.
27 upvotes
Piper T.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely better than expected and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Riverside) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
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.
27 upvotes
Aaron P.
good to know, thanks
21 upvotes
Roman Y.
Moved here from Houston about 4 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to dating scene but Happy to answer more specific questions..
19 upvotes
Chloe
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 9 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
16 upvotes
Everett R.
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Lakewood area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Lillian Ramirez
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
10 upvotes
Christian
Bought a house here in 2024 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
9 upvotes
stlrider2021
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 33, moved here 2 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Sunset and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The cultural scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for couples. excellent 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 Austin, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
1 upvotes
Chloe Young
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely decent and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
All Countries
