We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Lakewood area are improving. Kids love it here.
31 upvotes
Easton A.
accurate
25 upvotes
Joseph Evans
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 42, moved here 7 years ago from LA. I've lived in Riverside and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Affordable housing options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The community vibe situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 LA, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
21 upvotes
Kayden Gonzalez
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Midtown area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Nolan Carter
Bought a house here in 2022 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
12 upvotes
Emilia Gray
I've lived in North for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- The food scene scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
11 upvotes
Carson Hall
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely average and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Highland) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
10 upvotes
portlandlocal2024
Came here for work and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The safety is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
8 upvotes
Kai R.
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
3 upvotes
Judy P.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely tough and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Uptown) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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
Linda J.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Seattle it's decent.
0 upvotes
Jayden W.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.