Anyone else feel this way? Military spouse here. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. Median household income is $54,783, which feels on the lower side for the area. Rent is about $990/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Graham sits at 475.4 per 100K. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
4 upvotes
13 Replies
Ellie L.
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Diverse dining options
- The weather scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Dating scene is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Emma Jimenez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely better than expected and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
29 upvotes
Andrew N.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Riverside) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
28 upvotes
Sara T.
I'm a real estate agent and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
23 upvotes
Dominic
bump
21 upvotes
Caroline
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 8 years. Moved from Raleigh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is tough - 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 improving. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
Willow Murphy
I'm a electrician and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is average and there's always something going on.
6 upvotes
mesafan2024
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
6 upvotes
sf_ethan
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much wild but now it's surprisingly good.
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