So, We have two kids and Poverty rate is 10.2%, which is around average. Rent is about $1,311/month for a decent place. It's a a smaller city city with about 77,069 people. The unemployment rate is 4.4%, which is about average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Anyone in a similar situation? The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up.
25 upvotes
13 Replies
Hannah O.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Boston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Downtown. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in finance. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
Caleb C.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Jacob King
underrated comment
35 upvotes
Nora Morgan
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
32 upvotes
Henry Adams
Used to live on the East side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
25 upvotes
Amelia
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
24 upvotes
Leo W.
I'm a lawyer and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
22 upvotes
Savannah S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 8 years. Moved from Dallas for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Summers can be brutally hot. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Ava B.
hard disagree but ok
14 upvotes
Aubrey Green
Bought a house here in 2015 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
13 upvotes
Elena Gomez
haha yep pretty much
9 upvotes
Ethan Cooper
Bought a house here in 2022 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
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