Hello, Just moved here 7 months ago and Rent is about $1,044/month for a decent place. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Am I overthinking this? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
8 upvotes
8 Replies
Jace Williams
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if school system matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
40 upvotes
Madeline W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 2 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
36 upvotes
Camila Nelson
hard disagree but ok
34 upvotes
James M.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Ethan H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Chicago about 5 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Good luck with whatever you decide..
10 upvotes
Kelly E.
seconding this
7 upvotes
Charlotte Cook
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
2 upvotes
Emma Howard
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 14 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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