Hey folks, Been living here since 2018. Household incomes average around $212,700 in Westfield. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. What do you all think? Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
5 upvotes
7 Replies
Peyton
100%
39 upvotes
Ella H.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 4 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into running, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
28 upvotes
Cameron
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 53, moved here 3 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The traffic situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Pittsburgh, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
24 upvotes
detroit_austin
accurate
15 upvotes
John A.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 14 years. Moved from Austin for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2019 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate 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:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have mountains 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 average. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Can feel isolated. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Declan Scott
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 7 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
2 upvotes
Violet Flores
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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