Hey folks, I'm originally from Tucson and Household incomes average around $69,991 in Lincoln. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Let me know your thoughts. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
60 upvotes
7 Replies
Chloe Ruiz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 11 years. Moved from Dallas for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
construction is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Property taxes are high. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Logan R.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Sunset. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in real estate. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Hope this helps!.
24 upvotes
Jaxon P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 41, moved here 14 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Lakewood and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Property taxes are high
3. The pet-friendliness situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. decent vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Austin, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
22 upvotes
Asher R.
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
15 upvotes
Avery Allen
glad someone said it
12 upvotes
Hunter Morris
good to know, thanks
6 upvotes
Gabriella Hernandez
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
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