I work in media and Household incomes average around $163,725 in Reading. Rent is about $1,722/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 1.8%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Am I wrong here? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
27 upvotes
12 Replies
loving_samuel55
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Sunset area are excellent. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
Brooks W.
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Ava Cruz
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Luna Watson
lol so true
30 upvotes
Daniel R.
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Maple Ridge area are decent. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
Daniel Bailey
noted, appreciate it
19 upvotes
Benjamin G.
following this thread
18 upvotes
Sarah Watson
I work in engineering here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is tough. Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Elizabeth Richardson
I've lived in Lakewood for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- The community vibe scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
16 upvotes
Natalie Chavez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 10 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Amelia Diaz
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
10 upvotes
Kai Peterson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 13 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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