Been meaning to ask this. I grew up here but left for a while. It's a a smaller city city with about 37,751 people. Homes are going for about $405,000 on average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Thoughts? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
30 upvotes
10 Replies
Isaac Kim
big facts right here
39 upvotes
Sebastian Sanders
Came here for weather and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The cost of living is honestly tough and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
37 upvotes
Luna Rogers
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
33 upvotes
Autumn J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Portland about 6 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Close to major attractions
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is decent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Feel free to reach out with questions..
30 upvotes
Daniel R.
underrated comment
26 upvotes
Parker Alvarez
it depends on the neighborhood
25 upvotes
Ella Ross
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 2 years. Moved from Atlanta for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Midtown schools are average. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Limited shopping options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
ryan_lover
I've lived in Lakewood for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The job market scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
17 upvotes
Madelyn Thompson
Bought a house here in 2016 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
11 upvotes
Edward P.
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Fairview area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
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