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Jack R. moving

Remote worker thinking about Lakewood

Hey, I'm a remote worker and Homes are going for about $774,100 on average. The unemployment rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $774,100, which is pretty steep. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Is this normal for Lakewood? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
24 upvotes

7 Replies

Gabriel
yep
40 upvotes
Leo C.
I've lived in Riverside for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- The traffic scene is excellent

The downsides:
- Limited entertainment options
- Far from beaches/mountains

Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
34 upvotes
Addison Gutierrez
I've lived in South for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
- The community vibe scene is hit or miss

The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Summers can be brutally hot

Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
23 upvotes
Brooklyn J.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if dating scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
18 upvotes
Jaxon Y.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a writer, 24, moved here 7 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Oak Park and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Property taxes are high
3. The traffic situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Chicago, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$120K 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.
7 upvotes
Samuel Smith
as a local I can confirm
3 upvotes
James F.
this is the way
1 upvotes
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