Curious what people think. We're a young couple and Median household income is $125,991, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Thanks in advance! Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
9 upvotes
9 Replies
Sebastian Lee
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
40 upvotes
Jack P.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Lakewood. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in legal. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Hope this helps!.
38 upvotes
James K.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Miami it's solid.
36 upvotes
Emily
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 58, moved here 1 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The public transit situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. improving 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 Houston, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K 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.
35 upvotes
audrey_heart
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Chloe B.
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
32 upvotes
Piper Morales
seconding this
31 upvotes
Melanie Sanders
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 48, moved here 12 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Riverside and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The healthcare situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K 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.
23 upvotes
Zoe Sanders
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 11 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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