So, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 4.4%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Should I be concerned? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
11 upvotes
7 Replies
Everly B.
lol so true
36 upvotes
Austin Gray
I've lived in Lakewood for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The public transit scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
35 upvotes
Susan S.
Can confirm, been here 13 years.
33 upvotes
Samuel Moore
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 43, moved here 6 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Oak Park and Uptown, 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 excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The nightlife situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Houston, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
28 upvotes
jaxmind2021
I've lived in East for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
- The nightlife scene is decent
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. Feel free to reach out with questions..
21 upvotes
Samuel Parker
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
16 upvotes
Naomi Jackson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 14 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Close to major attractions
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are pricey, gas is solid.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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