We have two kids and Homes are going for about $124,800 on average. Household incomes average around $43,051 in Commerce. With a population of 9,211, Commerce is a small town. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Does this match your experience? The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
3 upvotes
5 Replies
happy_lucy20
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 4 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. finance 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 was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have desert landscapes 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 solid. 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 cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
emmett_chef
I work in finance here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is better than expected. No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Elizabeth R.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 8 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
11 upvotes
Allison Walker
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Seattle about 6 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. No regrets on my end..
6 upvotes
Grayson W.
Moved here from Nashville about 1 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to public transit but Definitely worth checking out..
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