Been meaning to ask this. Just moved here 9 months ago and It's a a small town city with about 5,331 people. Rent is about $759/month for a decent place. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Has anyone dealt with this? Thanks for reading.
3 upvotes
14 Replies
Hailey B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 7 years. Moved from Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have hiking trails 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 solid. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Can feel isolated. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Madelyn King
I work in finance here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is average. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
36 upvotes
Dominic Garcia
I work in retail here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is improving. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
35 upvotes
Maverick Morris
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
33 upvotes
Connor
glad someone said it
30 upvotes
Lucy Morris
hard disagree but ok
27 upvotes
Michael James
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want outdoor recreation, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
26 upvotes
Zoe Richardson
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if outdoor recreation matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
23 upvotes
Michael G.
preach
21 upvotes
Victoria Perez
wish I knew this sooner
10 upvotes
Nicholas Bailey
Saving this thread
3 upvotes
Colton
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in North area are challenging. Kids love it here.
3 upvotes
Aaron
Came here for family and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The community vibe is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
2 upvotes
Kai Mendoza
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.
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