So, Crime rate is something to consider -Laguna Niguel sits at 64.5 per 100K. The unemployment rate is 4.4%, which is about average. It's a a smaller city city with about 64,023 people. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
24 upvotes
2 Replies
Ava Cruz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 50, moved here 13 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The job market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for young professionals. challenging 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 Dallas, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$140K 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.
11 upvotes
Violet Rogers
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 dating scene. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
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