I'm single, late 30s, and Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. Median household income is $70,244, which feels about average for the area. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
14 upvotes
5 Replies
Eleanor Sanchez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 14 years. Moved from Chicago for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. consulting 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 hit or miss - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are decent. 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. Limited shopping options. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Nevaeh Jones
interesting, hadn't considered that
32 upvotes
Olivia Johnson
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much affordable but now it's solid.
19 upvotes
Jaxon Anderson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Lakewood. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Definitely worth checking out..
15 upvotes
Kinsley Scott
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 53, moved here 13 years ago from Denver. I've lived in North and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The traffic situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Denver, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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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