OK so Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Crime rate is something to consider -Welby sits at 438.2 per 100K. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
11 Replies
Charlotte Flores
haha yep pretty much
38 upvotes
Lucy M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 5 years. Moved from Denver for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2021 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. government 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 improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown 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. Limited shopping options. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Grace Cooper
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want public transit, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
33 upvotes
true_joshua86
nah I disagree
32 upvotes
Xavier Myers
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 Minneapolis for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is decent - we have desert landscapes 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 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. Property taxes are high. Can feel isolated. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Austin P.
yeah no that's not right
20 upvotes
Adeline Howard
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
9 upvotes
Greyson Flores
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Tampa it's better than expected.
9 upvotes
Peyton Myers
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
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