So, I'm a college student here and It's a a small town city with about 5,546 people. Crime rate is something to consider -Dunlap sits at 446.2 per 100K. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
4 upvotes
9 Replies
savannah_dude
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 13 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
37 upvotes
Tyler C.
yeah no that's not right
31 upvotes
portland_jacob
Totally agree!
25 upvotes
Willow Jimenez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
22 upvotes
Samuel Brown
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
18 upvotes
Ian Harris
Bought a house here in 2019 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
3 upvotes
Kai
spot on
3 upvotes
Emma Reyes
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want public transit, then yeah this place is great. But if housing market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
0 upvotes
Cameron H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 52, moved here 2 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in North and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The job market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Chicago, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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