Military spouse here. With a population of 156K, Lakewood is a mid-size city. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to.
34 upvotes
9 Replies
Hunter
Came here for family and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The cost of living is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
40 upvotes
coastal_melanie93
as a local I can confirm
38 upvotes
Danielle H.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if dating scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
29 upvotes
Addison Clark
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 1 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is decent - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are challenging. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Road conditions need improvement. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Connor J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 12 years ago. The main reasons were work and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is underrated.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Good luck with whatever you decide..
13 upvotes
Isabella Lopez
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
11 upvotes
Roman Bennett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Houston about 13 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Happy to answer more specific questions..
9 upvotes
Catherine R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 10 years. Moved from Houston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Pine Hills 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. Rising rent and home prices. Dating scene is rough. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Sadie H.
I work in engineering here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is average. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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