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emma_guy
moving
Considering Merritt Island vs Sacramento -help me decide
So, Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Would love some local perspective.
23 upvotes
2 Replies
Austin James
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 2 years. Moved from Denver for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - 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 excellent. 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 high-paying job options. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Lakewood for 2 years. Moved from Denver for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - 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 excellent. 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 high-paying job options. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
philly_brooks
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes