Overall City Sentiment Score
What’s the vibe like in Lakewood, Colorado? How do residents really feel about living in this Denver suburb? To find out, we analyzed social media chatter, local news coverage, online reviews, and more to calculate Lakewood’s overall sentiment score.
In 2023, Lakewood earns a sentiment score of 78 out of 100, reflecting a generally positive outlook among locals. The city’s strong sense of community, abundance of parks and trails, and relatively affordable housing costs compared to Denver proper all contribute to resident satisfaction. However, some concerns about increasing traffic and development also shape the city’s overall sentiment.
Social Media Buzz in Lakewood
On platforms like Reddit and Facebook groups such as “Lakewood Word of Mouth,” locals frequently praise the city’s family-friendly atmosphere, well-maintained public spaces, and convenient access to both the mountains and downtown Denver. “We love raising our kids here,” one parent shared. “Great schools, tons of activities, and a real community feel.”
However, social media posts also reflect growing pains as Lakewood’s population booms. “Traffic is definitely getting worse, especially along Wadsworth and Colfax,” a long-time resident noted. Others worry that new apartment complexes are changing the character of traditionally suburban neighborhoods. Overall though, social sentiment remains more positive than negative, with an upward trend in recent years.
Local News Tone
Lakewood’s local news outlets, such as the Lakewood Sentinel, strike a mostly optimistic tone when covering the city. Headlines celebrate new park openings, community events, and development projects that promise jobs and economic growth. “Lakewood Named a Top 10 Place to Live in Colorado,” one representative headline reads.
At the same time, local journalists don’t shy away from covering the challenges facing a growing city, from strained infrastructure to concerns over housing affordability. The overall news sentiment could be described as hopeful but realistic—acknowledging Lakewood’s appeal while not ignoring areas for improvement.
Review-Based Public Perception
On review platforms like Google and Niche, Lakewood earns strong marks for its public schools, outdoor recreation, and overall quality of life. “A great place to live, work, and play,” one reviewer summarized. Neighborhoods like Green Mountain and Applewood are frequently called out as family-friendly favorites.
Ratings dip slightly in the affordability category, with some noting that Lakewood’s cost of living, while lower than Denver’s, has crept up in recent years. “Still cheaper than living downtown, but not the bargain it once was,” a reviewer observed. Safety scores are generally high, though a few point to increasing property crime rates as an area to watch.
Comparison to Nearby Cities
| City | Sentiment Score | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakewood | 78 | Community feel, recreation, affordability | Growing traffic, development concerns |
| Denver | 82 | Job opportunities, culture/dining, public transit | High cost of living, homelessness, air quality |
| Arvada | 80 | Safe, family-friendly, charming downtown | Sleepy, limited diversity, fewer jobs |
Compared to Denver proper, Lakewood offers a quieter, more suburban lifestyle at a slightly lower cost. However, Denver scores higher for its vibrant arts and culture scene, thriving job market, and extensive public transportation. Nearby Arvada earns similar marks to Lakewood for safety and family-friendliness, but some find it a bit too quiet.
What Locals Are Saying
“We’ve lived in Lakewood for over a decade and have no plans to leave. It’s the perfect balance of community and convenience. I can hop on the light rail to commute downtown, but come home to my peaceful neighborhood each evening.” — Michelle K., 38, accountant and mother of two
“As a retiree, I appreciate all the senior-friendly services and activities Lakewood has to offer. The rec center is top-notch, and there’s always something going on at the library or cultural center. My only complaint is that the city is growing a bit too fast for my taste.” — Robert S., 71, retired teacher
“Lakewood has been a great place to launch my career as a remote software developer. [Housing costs](/lakewood-co/housing-breakdown/) are reasonable, especially if you have roommates, and there’s a cool coffee shop scene for getting out of the house. I do wish there were more young professionals my age though. A lot of my friends live in Denver proper.” — Alex T., 26, tech worker
Conclusion: Is Lakewood a Happy City?
Based on our sentiment analysis, Lakewood appears to be a city where a strong majority of residents feel satisfied, safe, and proud to call it home. While locals may grumble about growth-related growing pains, most seem to agree that Lakewood still offers an appealing [lifestyle](/lakewood-co/lifestyle-requirements/) and [monthly budget](/lakewood-co/monthly-budget/) for families and professionals alike.
Of course, no city is perfect, and individual experiences may vary. Lakewood’s overall vibe seems best suited to those seeking a comfortable suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities and outdoor adventures. For those craving the faster pace and diversity of a major metropolis, Denver may be a better fit—for a slightly higher price tag.
Ultimately, the data suggests that Lakewood is indeed a happy place to call home for many. But as with any city, it’s important to visit, explore the neighborhoods, and talk to locals to determine if it’s the right fit for you.