Longtime lurker here, I'm single, late 30s, and With a population of 17,188, Calera is a small town. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Let me know your thoughts. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Piper Morris
I've lived in Sunset for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
- The traffic scene is average
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Good luck with whatever you decide..
38 upvotes
Lily Garcia
literally same
33 upvotes
Emma Collins
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 7 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to healthcare but Definitely worth checking out..
32 upvotes
Bella Long
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
31 upvotes
Miles T.
thanks for sharing
31 upvotes
Claire
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
28 upvotes
Wesley Myers
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
23 upvotes
Jose Bennett
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
17 upvotes
Melanie Ward
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from LA about 5 years ago. The main reasons were weather and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Jose R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
11 upvotes
Oliver
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 11 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
4 upvotes
Jayden W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Phoenix about 6 years ago. The main reasons were work and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Decent public transit for the size
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Definitely worth checking out..
4 upvotes
Luca Rodriguez
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
3 upvotes
Paul M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 2 years. Moved from New York for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2024 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:**
marketing is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have mountains 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 surprisingly good. 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. Limited entertainment options. Far from beaches/mountains. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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