Anyone else feel this way? I'm a college student here and It's a a small town city with about 6,985 people. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Anyone in a similar situation? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Josiah M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Downtown. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in consulting. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
39 upvotes
Kai
I'm a sales manager and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
Gabriella Thomas
accurate
35 upvotes
Kayden C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 28, moved here 9 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Oak Park and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for young professionals. 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 Chicago, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
30 upvotes
Liam Patel
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
28 upvotes
Alice Hughes
Saving this thread
28 upvotes
Levi Bailey
yep
25 upvotes
Austin M.
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
20 upvotes
Miles Flores
Moved here last year, no regrets.
20 upvotes
Jace Scott
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The school system scene is average
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Luke M.
as a local I can confirm
14 upvotes
Emmett
100%
12 upvotes
Hunter Green
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
10 upvotes
Luke Gray
I've lived in Lakewood for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good airport with direct flights
- The dating scene scene is tough
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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