So, My partner and I are Crime rate is something to consider -Riverdale sits at 866.2 per 100K. The median home value here is around $104,800, which is actually reasonable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What neighborhoods would you suggest? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
4 upvotes
9 Replies
Connor Rivera
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 3 years. Moved from Boston for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - 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 average. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Limited entertainment options. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Frank W.
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great Mexican places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
34 upvotes
Xavier Turner
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
29 upvotes
Ava G.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Good luck with whatever you decide..
28 upvotes
Jordan Ross
same here
28 upvotes
Piper Ward
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 24, moved here 8 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Highland and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The safety situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K 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.
26 upvotes
Samantha R.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in East. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Jonathan Johnson
honestly same experience here
15 upvotes
Hazel Diaz
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
All Countries
