Been living here since 2023. Median household income is $56,375, which feels about average for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Anyone in a similar situation? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
13 upvotes
5 Replies
Owen Robinson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
39 upvotes
Grayson Allen
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Oak Park area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Melanie Collins
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Phoenix about 10 years ago. The main reasons were work and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is tough.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
Benjamin Cox
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 Nashville for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. retail 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:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - we have state parks 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 better than expected. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Levi Chavez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 27, moved here 6 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Cedar Grove and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Nice parks and green spaces
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The cost of living situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for remote workers. challenging vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Miami, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
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