Anyone else feel this way? Median household income is $115,149, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Hutto sits at 63.2 per 100K. The median home value here is around $315,800, which seems about average. Homes are going for about $315,800 on average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. What would you do? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Adrian C.
honestly same experience here
36 upvotes
Aaron C.
I've lived in Lakewood for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
- The cultural scene scene is solid
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Winters are long and cold
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for remote workers. Definitely worth checking out..
21 upvotes
Ella W.
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
21 upvotes
Hazel
wish I knew this sooner
19 upvotes
Jayden Baker
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Definitely worth checking out..
16 upvotes
Karen P.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
15 upvotes
Ann P.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely average and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (East) is affordable 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 Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
8 upvotes
Colton Robinson
I work in retail here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is average. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
8 upvotes
Daniel Rogers
preach
7 upvotes
Noah Brown
following this thread
5 upvotes
Owen Cook
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 52, moved here 8 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Highland and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited public transit options
3. The public transit situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for young professionals. underrated 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 Portland, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
All Countries
