OK so My family moved here when I was a kid. The median home value here is around $189,300, which is actually reasonable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
13 upvotes
5 Replies
Aurora G.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely underrated and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Sunset) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
38 upvotes
Scarlett C.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
24 upvotes
Adam Johnson
I work in marketing here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is underrated. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
18 upvotes
Owen
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 26, moved here 8 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Lakewood and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The safety situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
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