Hey, I'm a teacher here and You can expect to pay around $999 for rent here. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Is this normal for Lancaster? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
4 upvotes
4 Replies
Brooks Allen
Moved here from New York about 2 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to walkability but Hope this helps!.
32 upvotes
Jean A.
good to know, thanks
25 upvotes
Luca S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 51, moved here 11 years ago from LA. I've lived in Downtown and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The community vibe situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 LA, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K 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.
14 upvotes
Addison G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 10 years. Moved from New York for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is improving - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are tough. 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. Bugs and humidity in summer. Far from beaches/mountains. And outdoor recreation 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.