Hello, Just moved here 15 months ago and Poverty rate is 20.1%, which is higher than I expected. Median household income is $84,241, which feels pretty solid for the area. Average temperature is around 59--F, so the weather is moderate. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The city has invested a lot in new development. Any help is appreciated. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
25 upvotes
5 Replies
Evelyn Harris
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 11 years. Moved from LA for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is decent - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are underrated. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Property taxes are high. Limited shopping options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Mason Anderson
accurate
35 upvotes
sacramento_elena
I've lived in Lakewood for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- The job market scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
32 upvotes
Samuel Chavez
I've lived in Lakewood for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- The walkability scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
26 upvotes
Ezra
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
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