Hi all, Average temperature is around 46--F, so expect cold winters. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. What would you do?
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Angel Williams
underrated comment
40 upvotes
Savannah Morris
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 8 years. Moved from Tampa for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are challenging. 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. Winters are long and cold. Dating scene is rough. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
serenity_chef
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 54, moved here 3 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Lakewood and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The walkability situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. solid vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Dallas, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
33 upvotes
Sadie Parker
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Cedar Grove area are solid. Kids love it here.
32 upvotes
wild_rylee67
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
30 upvotes
Caleb Long
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
26 upvotes
Grace H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Nashville about 9 years ago. The main reasons were work and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Lots of new development happening
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are stable, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Good luck with whatever you decide..
16 upvotes
indyvibes2021
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
11 upvotes
Joshua Gray
Totally agree!
4 upvotes
Jackson J.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
2 upvotes
Carolyn C.
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The public transit is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
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