Random thought, Military spouse here. The median home value here is around $408,400, which is pretty steep. You can expect to pay around $2,174 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 1.9%, which is pretty low. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Would love some local perspective. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The city has invested a lot in new development.
3 upvotes
6 Replies
Maya Hall
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Seattle about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are affordable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Definitely worth checking out..
39 upvotes
Michael Kelly
Saving this thread
28 upvotes
Axel Walker
bump
17 upvotes
Ryan S.
seconding this
16 upvotes
Caleb Diaz
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much stable but now it's underrated.
15 upvotes
Kaylee Chavez
I've lived in Lakewood for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good airport with direct flights
- The cultural scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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