Hey folks, It's a a small town city with about 1,416 people. The median home value here is around $272,500, which seems about average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
9 upvotes
13 Replies
Marie H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 4 years. Moved from Austin for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is average - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood schools are challenging. 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. Winters are long and cold. Road conditions need improvement. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Autumn White
hard disagree but ok
28 upvotes
Kevin S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 39, moved here 11 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Eastside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The walkability situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for singles. tough vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Boston, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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
Brooklyn Ruiz
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in East area are excellent. Kids love it here.
21 upvotes
Axel Jackson
accurate
20 upvotes
Jordan Thomas
honestly same experience here
18 upvotes
living_addison90
interesting, hadn't considered that
17 upvotes
Alice M.
not my experience at all
15 upvotes
Cooper Robinson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is challenging in most areas.
14 upvotes
Julian Martin
I've lived in Highland 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 Boston, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good airport with direct flights
- The food scene scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Feel free to reach out with questions..
11 upvotes
Isaiah Sanders
I work in engineering here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is solid. Hope this helps!.
9 upvotes
Connor Lewis
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
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