I relocated for work and The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Lacey sits at 202.6 per 100K. Poverty rate is 7.8%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $427,900, which is pretty steep. Rent is about $1,805/month for a decent place. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Thanks in advance! The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
1 upvotes
7 Replies
Jacob Sanders
wish I knew this sooner
33 upvotes
Levi C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from San Francisco about 2 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are competitive, gas is improving.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
32 upvotes
Matthew Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 33, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Uptown and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Can feel isolated
3. The weather situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 San Diego, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K 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.
30 upvotes
Eliana Mitchell
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 10 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
16 upvotes
Savannah H.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Hope this helps!.
13 upvotes
atl_luna
couldn't agree more
12 upvotes
Benjamin Price
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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