Anyone else feel this way? I'm retired and Homes are going for about $269,400 on average. Rent is about $1,200/month for a decent place. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Is this normal for Green?
21 upvotes
12 Replies
Susan C.
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Old Town area are tough. Kids love it here.
28 upvotes
omaha_aubrey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 5 years. Moved from Chicago for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2020 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is decent - we have mountains 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 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. Urban sprawl is real. Limited shopping options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Stella
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Riverside area are tough. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
Piper King
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. weather 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.
23 upvotes
Gabriel Reed
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to New York it's pretty good.
22 upvotes
Ruby Ruiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 58, moved here 11 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Greenfield and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The school system situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for families. solid vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Charlotte, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
20 upvotes
Carson Reyes
yeah no that's not right
19 upvotes
Anna Castillo
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Boston it's hit or miss.
18 upvotes
Lucy W.
interesting, hadn't considered that
16 upvotes
Shirley W.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Old Town) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe 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.
14 upvotes
Benjamin Martinez
I'm a electrician and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
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