Hi all, Median household income is $96,145, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 5.1%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Westminster sits at 276.2 per 100K. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Would love some local perspective. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
53 upvotes
17 Replies
Ruby Kelly
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
28 upvotes
Jordan Ruiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 55, moved here 6 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Sunset and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The dating scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Houston, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
27 upvotes
Valentina R.
as a local I can confirm
26 upvotes
Mia Davis
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely tough and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability 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.
25 upvotes
Elizabeth
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
19 upvotes
Adam Ruiz
bump
18 upvotes
Joshua Long
literally same
18 upvotes
cool_josiah64
I work in retail here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is solid. Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
Audrey Wilson
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
14 upvotes
Katherine Lopez
literally same
14 upvotes
Nathan A.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is tough in most areas.
9 upvotes
Maya Ramirez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is excellent in most areas.
4 upvotes
omaharider2020
Bought a house here in 2023 and the quality of life is solid. Property values have gone about the same since then.
3 upvotes
Maverick Wright
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 4 years. Moved from Portland for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Lakewood schools are pretty good. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Limited entertainment options. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
Nicholas Jackson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is tough in most areas.
1 upvotes
Grace T.
it depends on the neighborhood
1 upvotes
James Adams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 25, moved here 8 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Nashville, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
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