Been meaning to ask this. I've been here for 14 years and Rent is about $2,081/month for a decent place. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Anyone in a similar situation?
19 upvotes
4 Replies
Eugene A.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from San Francisco about 9 years ago. The main reasons were school and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is decent.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
24 upvotes
Cameron A.
interesting, hadn't considered that
22 upvotes
kcvibes2025
This.
10 upvotes
Piper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 9 years. Moved from Charlotte 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 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. manufacturing 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 improved dramatically in recent years. 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. Lakewood 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. Limited high-paying job options. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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