OK so Been living here since 2024. The unemployment rate is 1.8%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $286,300 on average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Would love some local perspective. TIA! I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
30 upvotes
14 Replies
Carson Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 15 years. Moved from Houston for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is solid - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are improving. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Road conditions need improvement. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Robert Young
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Lakewood area are average. Kids love it here.
39 upvotes
nevaeh_vibes
Totally agree!
36 upvotes
Allison P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from San Francisco about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Four distinct seasons
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is challenging.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
33 upvotes
Adam
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The community vibe is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
31 upvotes
Isabelle Ruiz
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Good luck with whatever you decide..
23 upvotes
Margaret R.
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
jace_local
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The housing market is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
22 upvotes
Julian Evans
lol so true
15 upvotes
Brielle G.
wish I knew this sooner
13 upvotes
Angela C.
Saving this thread
3 upvotes
Ellie Torres
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 10 years. Moved from Seattle for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. 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 improving. 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. Limited public transit options. Limited shopping options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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