Longtime lurker here, What would you do? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
6 upvotes
8 Replies
Eva H.
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 4 years. Moved from Atlanta for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests 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 tough. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Daniel K.
Moved here from Denver about 13 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to cost of living but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Eleanor S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 55, moved here 5 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Sunset and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The traffic situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Tampa, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K 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.
36 upvotes
Maverick P.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
30 upvotes
Kayden S.
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 5 years. Moved from Seattle for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2024 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. 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. Cedar Grove schools are hit or miss. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Road conditions need improvement. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Cooper Jackson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
15 upvotes
Chloe
I've lived in Lakewood for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- The job market scene is average
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Hope this helps!.
12 upvotes
Keith W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 15 years. Moved from Houston for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are decent. 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. Far from beaches/mountains. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.