So, With a population of 15,513, Carthage is a small town. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Let me know your thoughts.
5 upvotes
13 Replies
Levi Rivera
Moved here from Dallas about 15 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Happy to answer more specific questions..
40 upvotes
Xavier Johnson
I'm a chef and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
36 upvotes
Madeline
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Miami about 13 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is average.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
30 upvotes
Sophie Roberts
lol so true
26 upvotes
Cora Garcia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 11 years. Moved from Denver for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Homeless population growing downtown. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Kenneth P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 3 years ago. The main reasons were work and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is challenging.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
20 upvotes
Aaron Mendoza
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
angel_local
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is solid in most areas.
16 upvotes
David Martin
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The safety is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
14 upvotes
Patricia T.
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Bennett R.
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Greenfield area are tough. Kids love it here.
11 upvotes
Jackson K.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 13 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
9 upvotes
Charlotte P.
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Close to major attractions
- The traffic scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for singles. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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