I'm a teacher here and The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
4 upvotes
4 Replies
Madelyn Wilson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely improving and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Downtown) 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. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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
Aubrey Nguyen
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Houston about 10 years ago. The main reasons were family and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Active local events and festivals
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is average.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
Adam Adams
I've lived in Lakewood for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- The cost of living scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Good luck with whatever you decide..
14 upvotes
Hunter Taylor
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 38, moved here 6 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Downtown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The job market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Phoenix, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.