Hey everyone, My family moved here when I was a kid. Median household income is $76,458, which feels about average for the area. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
1 upvotes
7 Replies
Christopher W.
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Lakewood area are solid. Kids love it here.
32 upvotes
Lucas K.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Minneapolis about 6 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is average.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Noah C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Nashville about 10 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong job market in several industries
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are developing, gas is improving.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
9 upvotes
Lily C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Atlanta about 9 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are pricey, gas is excellent.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Feel free to reach out with questions..
7 upvotes
Gabriel
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
6 upvotes
Santiago M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Maple Ridge. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in real estate. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
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