Is Lawrence still affordable?

Dylan Alvarez Nov 10, 2025

following this thread

37 upvotes

Gabriel Nov 23, 2025

OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a software engineer, 40, moved here 12 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Uptown and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Phoenix, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.

**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.

31 upvotes