First post here. I'm single, late 50s, and The unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. It's a a mid-size city city with about 129K people. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Does this match your experience?
11 upvotes
5 Replies
Allison Edwards
facts
37 upvotes
Allison Jimenez
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.
19 upvotes
Eli N.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 6 years. Moved from Phoenix for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. consulting 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 have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Lakewood schools are better than expected. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Far from beaches/mountains. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Ezekiel Lopez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely solid and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Bugs and humidity in summer.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
2 upvotes
Jose Rogers
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
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