Hi all, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 4.3%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $325,400 on average. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $1,044/month for a decent place. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Should I be concerned? The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
1 upvotes
13 Replies
Julia Johnson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 55, moved here 5 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Lakewood and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The housing market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. challenging 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
40 upvotes
Lydia Sanchez
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.
36 upvotes
Emilia Davis
thanks for sharing
33 upvotes
Ellie L.
Moved here from Seattle about 1 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to outdoor recreation but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
22 upvotes
Abigail Martin
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Lakewood. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
No regrets on my end..
19 upvotes
Aaliyah M.
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much competitive but now it's surprisingly good.
17 upvotes
Ariana White
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
17 upvotes
Landon Chavez
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
17 upvotes
Aaliyah Gray
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Charlotte about 4 years ago. The main reasons were school and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is decent.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Nova Lewis
Moved here from Boston about 10 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Happy to answer more specific questions..
14 upvotes
Gabriella Robinson
same here
9 upvotes
Alice Sanders
great question, following
7 upvotes
Allison Carter
I've lived in Sunset for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Strong job market in several industries
- The traffic scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Winters are long and cold
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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