Alright, I've been here for 16 years and Crime rate is something to consider -San Clemente sits at 133.8 per 100K. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Am I overthinking this? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
20 upvotes
15 Replies
Oliver Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 51, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in Pine Hills and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited shopping options
3. The school system situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for young professionals. pretty good 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 LA, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
36 upvotes
Margaret E.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Denver about 1 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are stable, gas is tough.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Sebastian Wood
exactly what I was thinking
26 upvotes
Maverick Price
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
26 upvotes
Genesis
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Sunset area are improving. Kids love it here.
22 upvotes
Roman Morgan
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 7 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Arianna Mendoza
nah I disagree
18 upvotes
Nova L.
This.
16 upvotes
Luke Patel
Moved here from Minneapolis about 6 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Gianna W.
I've lived in Lakewood for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The safety scene is average
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
grayson_dude
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Rylee Wright
Moved here last year, no regrets.
9 upvotes
Hannah Anderson
same here
6 upvotes
Wyatt
+1
4 upvotes
Adeline Cruz
Moved here from Austin about 12 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to job market but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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