Random thought, I'm retired and Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
2 upvotes
3 Replies
Christina P.
I work in hospitality here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is average. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Scarlett R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Portland about 6 years ago. The main reasons were school and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Diverse dining options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is improving.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Happy to answer more specific questions..
15 upvotes
Nova Nguyen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 2 years. Moved from Nashville for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is tough - we have biking trails 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 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. Urban sprawl is real. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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