Not sure if this has been asked before, but Been living here since 2011. Rent is about $1,508/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Anyone in a similar situation? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to.
27 upvotes
3 Replies
Everett Patel
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 1 years. Moved from Chicago for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. Lakewood schools are average. 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. Far from beaches/mountains. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Ariana Parker
I work in education here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is challenging. Hope this helps!.