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Nevaeh
moving
Relocating to Ottumwa, IA -pros and cons?
Hey, The suburbs are where most families end up.
10 upvotes
3 Replies
evelyn_heart
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
28 upvotes
Brooks Moore
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 12 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts 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 better than expected. 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. Nightlife is limited. Road conditions need improvement. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Lakewood for 12 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts 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 better than expected. 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. Nightlife is limited. Road conditions need improvement. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Aaliyah Hall
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Seattle about 3 years ago. The main reasons were weather and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is improving.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Seattle about 3 years ago. The main reasons were weather and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is improving.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
3 upvotes