OK so Born and raised here. Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $704 for rent here. Homes are going for about $116,300 on average. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Am I wrong here? Appreciate any input. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development.
1 upvotes
13 Replies
Charlotte Cook
facts
40 upvotes
Wyatt C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Chicago about 14 years ago. The main reasons were school and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Noah C.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Miami it's challenging.
34 upvotes
Brooks R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
34 upvotes
nola_abigail
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 10 years. Moved from Nashville for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. engineering 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Road conditions need improvement. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Nolan
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
30 upvotes
Ethan Sanchez
interesting, hadn't considered that
29 upvotes
Henry Campbell
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The weather is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Aaliyah Nguyen
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 11 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
17 upvotes
charlotte_owen
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Gabriella Johnson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 52, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in Sunset and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The healthcare situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 LA, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
11 upvotes
Melanie Sanders
Moved here from Charlotte about 11 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to safety but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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