The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
13 upvotes
9 Replies
Ethan Sanders
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 48, moved here 2 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Eastside and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The dating scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. improving 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 Atlanta, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K 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.
40 upvotes
Hudson Robinson
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
Matthew Sanchez
interesting, hadn't considered that
36 upvotes
Gregory M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 8 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
33 upvotes
Elizabeth R.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is tough in most areas.
31 upvotes
Hannah Moore
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 1 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
31 upvotes
Brielle Kelly
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Indian places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
20 upvotes
Wesley Torres
haha yep pretty much
18 upvotes
Nevaeh James
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Pine Hills area are improving. Kids love it here.