Hey folks, With a population of 17,774, Willimantic is a small town. The suburbs are where most families end up. Should I be concerned? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
8 upvotes
9 Replies
Kinsley Bailey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 8 years. Moved from Tampa for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. consulting 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:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks 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 hit or miss. 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. Nightlife is limited. Urban sprawl is real. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Isaiah Wright
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Good luck with whatever you decide..
38 upvotes
John Morgan
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 10 years. Moved from Minneapolis for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Cedar Grove schools are decent. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Bugs and humidity in summer. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
born_charlotte26
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is tough in most areas.
20 upvotes
Zoey Clark
Moved here from Boston about 9 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to healthcare but Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Connor Moore
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
14 upvotes
Thomas Turner
Moved here from Raleigh about 1 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to dating scene but Good luck with whatever you decide..
9 upvotes
Olivia K.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to San Diego it's decent.
3 upvotes
Zoey Torres
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
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