Rent is about $2,208/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. Has anyone dealt with this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development.
19 upvotes
12 Replies
nolachef2023
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Seattle it's surprisingly good.
34 upvotes
Anna Scott
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Charlotte about 11 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
33 upvotes
Stephanie N.
I've lived in Lakewood for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
- The community vibe scene is tough
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
30 upvotes
Julia Green
100%
28 upvotes
Theodore T.
Totally agree!
27 upvotes
Grace Ross
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Houston it's tough.
26 upvotes
Declan Wood
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Westside. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
24 upvotes
Julian Mendoza
I've lived in Oak Park for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- The weather scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
24 upvotes
isabelle_runner
Moved here from Dallas about 9 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to dating scene but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
18 upvotes
Christian C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Atlanta about 1 years ago. The main reasons were work and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are growing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
13 upvotes
henry_mama
great question, following
4 upvotes
Michael Flores
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Austin it's tough.