Random thought, Average temperature is around 70--F, so the weather is moderate. It's a a small town city with about 10,558 people. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
1 upvotes
6 Replies
Colton Gutierrez
Came here for work and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The pet-friendliness is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
30 upvotes
Oliver Bailey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 9 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Highland 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. Limited public transit options. Winters are long and cold. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Naomi Lopez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 5 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests 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 excellent. 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 healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
sf_ethan
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Maple Ridge area are average. Kids love it here.
26 upvotes
Jace Myers
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (North) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
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