So, I'm a college student here and Homes are going for about $222,600 on average. You can expect to pay around $945 for rent here. Average temperature is around 68--F, so the weather is moderate. Crime rate is something to consider -Lacombe sits at 300.5 per 100K. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
3 upvotes
10 Replies
Aurora Parker
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 outdoor recreation. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
Jack R.
preach
40 upvotes
Lucas Reed
this is the way
39 upvotes
Madeline Hernandez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 3 years. Moved from Nashville for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
construction is strong here. education 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 genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is solid - 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 solid. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Urban sprawl is real. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Joshua C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 15 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
nicholas_mind
great question, following
27 upvotes
Isla Phillips
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 10 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
23 upvotes
Grace T.
nah I disagree
17 upvotes
proud_hudson13
yeah no that's not right
11 upvotes
Jonathan C.
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.