OK so I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $377,800 on average. Average temperature is around 76--F, so it's warm year-round. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Would love some local perspective. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
3 upvotes
18 Replies
Oliver Price
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Maya Evans
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
37 upvotes
Isla A.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Pittsburgh it's excellent.
37 upvotes
Isaiah C.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
37 upvotes
Victoria P.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
33 upvotes
isla_mind
yeah no that's not right
31 upvotes
Nova Long
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
30 upvotes
Elijah W.
hard disagree but ok
28 upvotes
Scarlett Moore
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 8 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
22 upvotes
Janet A.
hard disagree but ok
20 upvotes
Lucas Martin
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great farm-to-table places. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
17 upvotes
Maverick Myers
haha yep pretty much
15 upvotes
dc_skylar
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 9 years. Moved from Raleigh for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. healthcare 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 was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is improving - we have national forests 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 pretty good. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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