We have two kids and Poverty rate is 10.2%, which is around average. You can expect to pay around $1,381 for rent here. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Any advice would be great. Thanks in advance! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
24 upvotes
13 Replies
Matthew Thomas
it depends on the neighborhood
30 upvotes
Jameson Cooper
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 8 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
30 upvotes
Naomi Parker
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Audrey Evans
lol so true
20 upvotes
Wesley Campbell
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
19 upvotes
Zoey Gutierrez
exactly what I was thinking
15 upvotes
Jace Long
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 13 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2023 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:**
manufacturing is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. 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. East schools are underrated. 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 very walkable outside downtown. Can feel isolated. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Serenity Brooks
exactly what I was thinking
15 upvotes
Jacob
I'm a chef and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is average and there's always something going on.
14 upvotes
Brooklyn G.
100%
13 upvotes
Aurora Young
noted, appreciate it
12 upvotes
austin_jonathan
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Meadowbrook area are tough. Kids love it here.
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