First post here. Just moved here 2 months ago and It's a a smaller city city with about 67,403 people. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
18 upvotes
7 Replies
Violet Morris
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The cost of living is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
Asher
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 57, moved here 14 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Pine Hills and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Can feel isolated
3. The food scene situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $50K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
37 upvotes
lake_emilia15
I work in healthcare here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is excellent. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Isla
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if nightlife matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
14 upvotes
Peyton K.
I've lived in Lakewood for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The cost of living scene is improving
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Good luck with whatever you decide..
11 upvotes
Ethan Cooper
nah I disagree
7 upvotes
Cooper Sanchez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely excellent and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Midtown) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Homeless population growing downtown.
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.
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