Random thought, Crime rate is something to consider — Meridian sits at 159.2 per 100K. With a population of 125K, Meridian is a mid-size city. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
23 upvotes
14 Replies
Aaliyah Cook
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
31 upvotes
Addison Hill
I've lived in Lakewood for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Active local events and festivals
- The outdoor recreation scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
30 upvotes
Hudson A.
preach
27 upvotes
milwaukee_nevaeh
honestly same experience here
25 upvotes
Rylee Gray
exactly what I was thinking
24 upvotes
William Wilson
noted, appreciate it
24 upvotes
fresnolocal2020
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 10 years. Moved from Atlanta for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is solid - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Not very walkable outside downtown. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Delilah Lopez
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Oak Park area are underrated. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Ezra S.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are tough, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
16 upvotes
Audrey Jimenez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Charlotte it's hit or miss.
14 upvotes
Jeremiah W.
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
11 upvotes
Ariana Thompson
literally same
8 upvotes
Logan Brooks
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want traffic, then yeah this place is great. But if housing market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
5 upvotes
Maya Bailey
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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