Been meaning to ask this. I'm retired and It's a a smaller city city with about 31,801 people. The unemployment rate is 0.8%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. What would you do? The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
1 upvotes
21 Replies
Eleanor Cook
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Cedar Grove area are challenging. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
Brooks Sanders
haha yep pretty much
40 upvotes
Betty M.
been saying this for years
37 upvotes
Eva Gray
I've lived in Sunset for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- The housing market scene is average
The downsides:
- Limited entertainment options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
34 upvotes
Natalie Alvarez
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Southern places. I love the pace of life here.
34 upvotes
Hailey Davis
This.
34 upvotes
Debra L.
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great farm-to-table places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
30 upvotes
Connor Ramirez
Used to live on the South side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
28 upvotes
Abigail T.
interesting, hadn't considered that
22 upvotes
Arianna Evans
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
22 upvotes
Clara Bennett
noted, appreciate it
21 upvotes
Barbara R.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Lakewood. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in tech. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
21 upvotes
Jordan Cooper
hard disagree but ok
19 upvotes
emilia_local
it depends on the neighborhood
19 upvotes
Axel Roberts
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
18 upvotes
cora_walker
100%
14 upvotes
portlandlover2022
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Charlotte it's decent.
14 upvotes
Daniel P.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor recreation is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
14 upvotes
Christian Jimenez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 4 years. Moved from Miami for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. education 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:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown 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. Nightlife is limited. Not very walkable outside downtown. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Angel Jackson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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