Hi all, I'm single, late 40s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Los Lunas sits at 1,287.0 per 100K. Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. You can expect to pay around $1,157 for rent here. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
Pros:
- Friendly people
- Nice parks and trails
- Strong sense of community
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons:
- Traffic can be terrible
- Rising rent prices
- High property taxes
- Poor road conditions
- Limited cultural events
Does this match your experience? The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
7 upvotes
10 Replies
Theodore P.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely average and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Midtown) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
39 upvotes
Sarah G.
exactly what I was thinking
38 upvotes
zoey_mind
it depends on the neighborhood
36 upvotes
Oliver
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 7 years. Moved from Seattle for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
manufacturing 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 improving - we have desert landscapes 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 improving. 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 public transit options. Winters are long and cold. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Janice N.
honestly same experience here
32 upvotes
Owen Wright
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 50, moved here 11 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Lakewood and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cultural scene situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for families. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
32 upvotes
Ryan M.
Moved here from Dallas about 14 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to safety but Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Elijah J.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 2 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Meadowbrook side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
13 upvotes
Angel Ramos
been saying this for years
10 upvotes
Adam Flores
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 10 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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