First post here. Just moved here 11 months ago and The unemployment rate is 0.4%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $2,294/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Pike Creek sits at 317.0 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $2,294 for rent here. Household incomes average around $135,703 in Pike Creek. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
1 upvotes
15 Replies
Austin
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The weather is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
31 upvotes
Camila Brown
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 4 years. Moved from Portland for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have lakes 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 tough. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Can feel isolated. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Luke Mitchell
it depends on the neighborhood
20 upvotes
Ella Johnson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
17 upvotes
Ian T.
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. walkability used to be much wild but now it's pretty good.
17 upvotes
Liam Flores
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
14 upvotes
Ava Ruiz
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
13 upvotes
Ellie Cook
following this thread
11 upvotes
Naomi R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 15 years ago. The main reasons were school and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are stable, gas is tough.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
8 upvotes
Emma Morris
+1
7 upvotes
Abigail R.
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is cultural scene. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
7 upvotes
Aria
been saying this for years
6 upvotes
Kai P.
Saving this thread
4 upvotes
Samuel P.
spot on
1 upvotes
Kyle W.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.