I'm a remote worker and It's a a small town city with about 17,520 people. The unemployment rate is 5.4%, which is about average. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. What do you all think? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
13 upvotes
15 Replies
Hannah C.
exactly what I was thinking
24 upvotes
Claire Clark
hmm interesting perspective
21 upvotes
Alexa Long
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Sophie Thomas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 44, moved here 14 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in East and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The food scene situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. average 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 Chicago, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
18 upvotes
Piper
Used to live on the South side, now on the Maple Ridge side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
18 upvotes
Leonardo Ramos
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Lakewood area are improving. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Elizabeth C.
I'm a electrician and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
17 upvotes
Everly
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 10 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Hannah Stewart
hard disagree but ok
12 upvotes
Sophie Walker
interesting, hadn't considered that
11 upvotes
Avery
following this thread
10 upvotes
Isaiah T.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely underrated and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job 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.
7 upvotes
Joan W.
wish I knew this sooner
4 upvotes
Adeline B.
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
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