So, I'm originally from Phoenix and Poverty rate is 2.3%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $665,700 on average. The median home value here is around $665,700, which is pretty steep. It's a a small town city with about 14,722 people. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Am I wrong here? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
8 upvotes
4 Replies
Adeline Thomas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 25, moved here 7 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Lakewood and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The outdoor recreation situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Seattle, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
38 upvotes
Isaiah B.
I'm a real estate agent and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
29 upvotes
jaxlocal2026
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want weather, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
27 upvotes
Caleb Lee
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want traffic, then yeah this place is great. But if traffic matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
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