Anyone else feel this way? The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
12 upvotes
11 Replies
Maya Kelly
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (North) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife 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.
40 upvotes
Ariana K.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
34 upvotes
Stella Foster
honestly same experience here
29 upvotes
Grace C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 51, moved here 2 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Lakewood and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The nightlife situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Denver, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K 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.
29 upvotes
Hazel Clark
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 13 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Allison Davis
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Raleigh about 13 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is average.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Good luck with whatever you decide..
25 upvotes
Brooks Collins
Used to live on the Downtown side, now on the Pine Hills side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
21 upvotes
Willow Bailey
hard disagree but ok
19 upvotes
Victoria Howard
Moved here from Portland about 1 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to housing market but Hope this helps!.
15 upvotes
Sophie Kim
seconding this
4 upvotes
Eleanor Collins
Moved here from Tampa about 12 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to weather but Good luck with whatever you decide..