So, Born and raised here. The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up.
5 upvotes
14 Replies
Matthew Perez
I'm a sales manager and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
Valentina Johnson
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Zachary G.
I'm a project manager and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
35 upvotes
Emily Moore
Moved here from Raleigh about 12 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to dating scene but No regrets on my end..
32 upvotes
Danielle O.
This.
32 upvotes
Bella Robinson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 6 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Nicholas Jones
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 58, moved here 4 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Lakewood and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The nightlife situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Raleigh, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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
Natalie
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 7 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have rivers 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 tough. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Winters are long and cold. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Landon T.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Asher Long
Public transit is solid here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
20 upvotes
Savannah Thompson
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The walkability is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Hailey
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
10 upvotes
Emily
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 8 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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