Hey everyone, Military spouse here. The median home value here is around $335,000, which seems about average. Poverty rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 4.1%, which is about average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
14 upvotes
10 Replies
Leah Nguyen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 13 years. Moved from Portland for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes 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 decent. 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. Property taxes are high. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Isaiah Taylor
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely underrated and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Sunset) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. school system 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.
35 upvotes
Nathan Cruz
underrated comment
34 upvotes
Jeremiah Harris
I'm a chef and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
27 upvotes
Nicholas
not my experience at all
23 upvotes
Easton Hill
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 8 years. Moved from San Francisco for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Pine Hills schools are surprisingly good. 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. Limited shopping options. Far from beaches/mountains. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Bennett Hughes
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in South area are excellent. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Hudson N.
lol so true
13 upvotes
fresno_daniel
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Atlanta about 11 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is solid.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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