Random thought, I've been here for 7 years and Poverty rate is 6.9%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,487 for rent here. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Any help is appreciated. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
1 upvotes
6 Replies
Gabriella Perez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 58, moved here 9 years ago from LA. I've lived in Pine Hills and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Close to major attractions
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The cost of living situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 LA, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
40 upvotes
Logan Kim
this is the way
39 upvotes
Skylar Williams
Can confirm, been here 1 years.
38 upvotes
Weston Anderson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely challenging and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (The Heights) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
36 upvotes
Shirley A.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 13 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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