I'm single, late 40s, and You can expect to pay around $1,662 for rent here. Average temperature is around 76--F, so it's warm year-round. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. What are your go-to spots? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
1 upvotes
10 Replies
Cora Lopez
glad someone said it
38 upvotes
Matthew
Bought a house here in 2016 and the quality of life is solid. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
38 upvotes
Luca Rogers
I'm a pharmacist and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
32 upvotes
Jaxon E.
Moved here from Chicago about 6 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to traffic but No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Abigail Nelson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
25 upvotes
Asher K.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
21 upvotes
Grayson Perez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 7 years. Moved from Raleigh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. marketing 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are hit or miss. 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. Nightlife is limited. Limited high-paying job options. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Leah Scott
literally same
9 upvotes
Michael Collins
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into running, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
2 upvotes
Samantha B.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 9 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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