First post here. Median household income is $87,277, which feels pretty solid for the area. The median home value here is around $427,900, which is pretty steep. Household incomes average around $87,277 in Lacey. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
11 upvotes
17 Replies
mountain_kaylee69
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much growing but now it's pretty good.
40 upvotes
Andrew Reyes
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from San Diego about 9 years ago. The main reasons were school and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are affordable, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Feel free to reach out with questions..
34 upvotes
Camila
literally same
27 upvotes
Allison L.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from San Diego about 2 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Feel free to reach out with questions..
27 upvotes
bostonlife2023
As someone who grew up here, I love the pace of life here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. traffic used to be much stable but now it's tough.
24 upvotes
Rylee Nguyen
I'm a real estate agent and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
23 upvotes
Hailey Cruz
good to know, thanks
15 upvotes
Zachary G.
great question, following
15 upvotes
Nora T.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
12 upvotes
Sebastian Ward
yeah no that's not right
6 upvotes
Reagan
big facts right here
6 upvotes
Eva Morris
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely underrated and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (West) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
3 upvotes
Adeline Davis
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
3 upvotes
Alyssa C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from San Diego about 3 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is improving.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
3 upvotes
Ezra A.
I've lived in Fairview for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- The dating scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
3 upvotes
Asher Phillips
Saving this thread
2 upvotes
Violet Price
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 41, moved here 11 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Riverside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Property taxes are high
3. The cost of living situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K 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.
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