Curious what people think. I've been here for 13 years and Household incomes average around $116,794 in Lakewood. The unemployment rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Am I overthinking this? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
27 upvotes
12 Replies
Isaiah M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 46, moved here 10 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Old Town and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The weather situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
39 upvotes
Brielle J.
This.
39 upvotes
Cooper Jackson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 11 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
36 upvotes
Wyatt Edwards
hmm interesting perspective
35 upvotes
Ian Morgan
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 11 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2024 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are underrated. 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. Limited shopping options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Dominic Carter
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to Salt Lake City it's underrated.
25 upvotes
Brielle Jackson
Moved here from Baltimore about 7 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to nightlife but Good luck with whatever you decide..
22 upvotes
Jayden Adams
underrated comment
16 upvotes
Jose Collins
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
11 upvotes
Eli Rivera
underrated comment
10 upvotes
Nathan Kelly
Moved here from Miami about 5 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to public transit but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
Madelyn Baker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 10 years. Moved from Nashville for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. healthcare 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Sunset schools are surprisingly good. 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 public transit options. Summers can be brutally hot. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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