Curious what people think. We're a young couple and Poverty rate is 9.8%, which is pretty low. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Let me know your thoughts. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Dylan Ward
I've lived in Lakewood for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
- The school system scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
40 upvotes
Nathan Miller
it depends on the neighborhood
40 upvotes
Greyson Wilson
This.
39 upvotes
Cameron
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Maverick Castillo
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in The Heights. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in tech. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Hope this helps!.
24 upvotes
Kai White
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely improving and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Uptown) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
19 upvotes
Carson Young
good to know, thanks
15 upvotes
Teresa C.
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
15 upvotes
Hannah Chavez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
14 upvotes
Theodore
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Fairview) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
7 upvotes
Robert Moore
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Atlanta about 10 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is tough.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. No regrets on my end..
5 upvotes
Santiago Green
following this thread
5 upvotes
Mason Price
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 31, moved here 15 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Downtown and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The outdoor recreation situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
2 upvotes
Katherine Phillips
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great Indian places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
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