Anyone else feel this way? The median home value here is around $394,900, which seems about average. Median household income is $72,365, which feels about average for the area. With a population of 5,896, Hidden Valley Lake is a small town. The unemployment rate is 6.3%, which is concerning. Household incomes average around $72,365 in Hidden Valley Lake. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Let me know your thoughts. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
2 upvotes
11 Replies
Luna Scott
Totally agree!
39 upvotes
Riley Murphy
wish I knew this sooner
39 upvotes
Sharon M.
yeah no that's not right
37 upvotes
Colton
this is the way
34 upvotes
Madelyn White
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Mediterranean places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
30 upvotes
Charlotte N.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
25 upvotes
Kaylee M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
24 upvotes
Harper Walker
Bought a house here in 2020 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone about the same since then.
22 upvotes
Carson W.
yep
19 upvotes
Judy A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 42, moved here 4 years ago from LA. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The outdoor recreation situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 LA, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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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