Hi all, I'm a remote worker and Rent is about $1,661/month for a decent place. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Let me know your thoughts. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
8 upvotes
11 Replies
Madeline
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely tough and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (South) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
38 upvotes
Julian Campbell
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Lakewood. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in finance. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Hope this helps!.
36 upvotes
Michael Rivera
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Eastside area are improving. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Eleanor
underrated comment
29 upvotes
Kaylee Martinez
I've lived in Lakewood for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The outdoor recreation scene is solid
The downsides:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Aurora Davis
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 11 years ago. The main reasons were work and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
23 upvotes
naomi_mama
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Springfield. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in education. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Hope this helps!.
21 upvotes
Emma Ross
wish I knew this sooner
16 upvotes
Samuel Parker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely better than expected and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
8 upvotes
Nova Peterson
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Old Town area are tough. Kids love it here.
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