Been meaning to ask this. I'm single, late 50s, and The median home value here is around $1,200,900, which is pretty steep. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. What are your go-to spots? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
22 upvotes
9 Replies
Paisley
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Riverside area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Ronald M.
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's hit or miss.
30 upvotes
Natalie Flores
Bought a house here in 2023 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
28 upvotes
Zoe Young
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 Dallas for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - we have beaches 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 pretty good. 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 public transit options. Dating scene is rough. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Adeline Price
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 8 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
18 upvotes
Madeline M.
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
18 upvotes
Delilah H.
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much reasonable but now it's decent.
16 upvotes
Alexander Baker
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The safety is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
15 upvotes
Lucas Wood
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Meadowbrook area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
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