Hello, I'm a college student here and The unemployment rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. Poverty rate is 8.1%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Taylors sits at 810.7 per 100K. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
9 upvotes
15 Replies
Dominic Davis
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
38 upvotes
Mateo
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want school system, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
34 upvotes
Julian
accurate
32 upvotes
Evan Myers
I work in hospitality here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is excellent. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
31 upvotes
Logan
I've lived in Old Town for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Lots of new development happening
- The cost of living scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
Violet Perez
preach
21 upvotes
Naomi Rodriguez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
16 upvotes
Luke Davis
haha yep pretty much
16 upvotes
Willow Walker
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
9 upvotes
Maya
I've lived in Lakewood for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- The cost of living scene is average
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
6 upvotes
Asher Lopez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 3 years. Moved from Dallas for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. manufacturing 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's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. South schools are challenging. 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. Rising rent and home prices. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
5 upvotes
Kaylee Martinez
This.
5 upvotes
Jeremiah J.
thanks for sharing
3 upvotes
Aaliyah Lopez
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Indian places. it exceeded my expectations.
3 upvotes
Nora Roberts
Moved here from Boston about 1 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to public transit but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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