Hey folks, Rent is about $1,736/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. Cheers.
49 upvotes
14 Replies
Dylan Young
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Baltimore about 2 years ago. The main reasons were school and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Definitely worth checking out..
38 upvotes
Ava Lopez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from San Diego about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are wild, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Definitely worth checking out..
38 upvotes
Vivian Diaz
I've lived in Lakewood for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Affordable housing options
- The cost of living scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
34 upvotes
Julia Thompson
as a local I can confirm
34 upvotes
Olivia P.
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The community vibe is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
Chloe Hernandez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (North) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
24 upvotes
Caleb Alvarez
Moved here from Houston about 12 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to nightlife but Good luck with whatever you decide..
24 upvotes
Thomas C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 53, moved here 12 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The pet-friendliness situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Denver, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
23 upvotes
Skylar Evans
interesting, hadn't considered that
20 upvotes
Daniel L.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Denver it's tough.
20 upvotes
chill_kaylee49
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from LA about 8 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is average.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
Gabriel Baker
spot on
16 upvotes
Aubrey Harris
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Eliana T.
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much growing but now it's excellent.