I've been here for 1 years and The unemployment rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. What would you do? The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
13 upvotes
9 Replies
Christian Ramos
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 4 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
38 upvotes
tulsaheart2025
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
20 upvotes
Ezekiel Cooper
I work in hospitality here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Definitely worth checking out..
20 upvotes
Rylee Castillo
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 11 years. Moved from LA for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are improving. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Bugs and humidity in summer. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, 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.
16 upvotes
Weston Allen
yeah no that's not right
15 upvotes
Arianna Nelson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is underrated in most areas.
10 upvotes
Joseph Hernandez
been saying this for years
8 upvotes
Aubrey Green
wish I knew this sooner
8 upvotes
Julian
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Minneapolis it's average.
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