Worst things about Lake Havasu City nobody talks about
Been meaning to ask this. We have two kids and Median household income is $66,264, which feels about average for the area. 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.
29 upvotes
8 Replies
Kai Brown
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Old Town area are challenging. Kids love it here.
32 upvotes
Bella Garcia
lol so true
32 upvotes
Nolan
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
30 upvotes
Valentina W.
thanks for sharing
11 upvotes
Katherine Anderson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 6 years. Moved from Seattle for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks 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 decent. 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. Limited shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Joseph Walker
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
8 upvotes
Hazel Richardson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 34, moved here 13 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Greenfield and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The traffic situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for couples. underrated vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Denver, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
7 upvotes
Ruby Rodriguez
I've lived in Springfield for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Diverse dining options
- The community vibe scene is solid
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. No regrets on my end..