First post here. I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Median household income is $144,941, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 1.6%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $2,552 for rent here. Homes are going for about $757,700 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What would you do? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
2 upvotes
10 Replies
Savannah Morales
This.
35 upvotes
Aiden Long
I've lived in Sunset for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure
- The healthcare scene is tough
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. Feel free to reach out with questions..
31 upvotes
Emmett Kelly
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 14 years. Moved from Portland for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests 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 hit or miss. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Abigail
not my experience at all
24 upvotes
Jason B.
Used to live on the Fairview side, now on the Eastside side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
17 upvotes
William Turner
I work in retail here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Madeline Hill
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much affordable but now it's pretty good.
14 upvotes
Luca Mitchell
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Seattle about 10 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is tough.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
9 upvotes
Brielle
honestly same experience here
9 upvotes
Easton Nelson
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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