So, Homes are going for about $498,700 on average. Household incomes average around $123,586 in Horizon West. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Worth the trade-offs? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
4 upvotes
9 Replies
Christina M.
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much reasonable but now it's surprisingly good.
38 upvotes
Ezekiel Jackson
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The cost of living is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
33 upvotes
Eli
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 57, moved here 6 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Lakewood and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cost of living situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Baltimore, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
29 upvotes
Bennett Williams
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 14 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
16 upvotes
Maverick Ramos
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Austin it's excellent.
15 upvotes
Aurora Johnson
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
14 upvotes
theodore_rider
yep
8 upvotes
Hazel Morris
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Maple Ridge area are improving. Kids love it here.
4 upvotes
Wyatt Young
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Hope this helps!.