So, I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $145,800 on average. With a population of 1,111, Lansing is a small town. Rent is about $581/month for a decent place. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Would love some local perspective. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
10 upvotes
12 Replies
Jacob Gray
I've lived in South for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- The dating scene scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Good luck with whatever you decide..
39 upvotes
Virginia A.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
30 upvotes
Jeremiah Martin
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 14 years. Moved from Baltimore for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same 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:**
real estate is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Carson Morris
I've lived in Lakewood for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
- The school system scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Winters are long and cold
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
Nova
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
27 upvotes
Jayden M.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Portland it's tough.
11 upvotes
Ezra Richardson
nah I disagree
10 upvotes
Chloe Rogers
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Sunset area are excellent. Kids love it here.
7 upvotes
chill_xavier2
100%
6 upvotes
Hazel Murphy
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 2 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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