Not sure if this has been asked before, but Just moved here 3 months ago and Crime rate is something to consider -Ellenville sits at 440.4 per 100K. Rent is about $1,132/month for a decent place. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Has anyone dealt with this? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
3 upvotes
13 Replies
Henry Rivera
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is tough in most areas.
40 upvotes
Angel Garcia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 11 years. Moved from Houston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have biking trails 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 surprisingly 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Far from beaches/mountains. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Hazel Allen
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
35 upvotes
Stella Roberts
hmm interesting perspective
33 upvotes
Aurora Carter
Can confirm, been here 5 years.
32 upvotes
Nova Turner
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
31 upvotes
Abigail B.
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
28 upvotes
Audrey Price
hmm interesting perspective
21 upvotes
Roman Perez
I've lived in Maple Ridge 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 Baltimore, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
- The food scene scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
21 upvotes
Helen G.
hard disagree but ok
20 upvotes
reagan_vibes
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
7 upvotes
Alice Gomez
Can confirm, been here 7 years.
6 upvotes
Jonathan
I work in hospitality here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is tough. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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