Is Lakewood Safe, Pros and cons of living in Lakewood
Lakewood, Colorado offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility, making it an attractive place to live. It boasts a diverse population and a range of amenities that contribute to a desirable lifestyle for its residents.
Is it Safe to Live in Lakewood?
Lakewood, Colorado, presents a mixed safety profile. The city’s overall crime rate is higher than the national average, with specific concerns in violent crime categories (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). However, residents often feel safe, particularly in the eastern neighborhoods, with a perception of safety varying by area within the city (as reported by Niche). The chance of being a victim of crime can range from 1 in 29 in the northwest to 1 in 46 in the east (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).
Violent crime rates in Lakewood are notably above the national average, with aggravated assault and robbery rates being particularly high (as reported by CrimeExplorer). Property crime also presents a concern, with rates significantly exceeding national figures (as reported by CrimeExplorer). While official statistics highlight these concerns, individual experiences and perceptions of safety can differ across neighborhoods (as reported by Niche).
Housing and Cost of Living
The cost of living in Lakewood, Colorado, is notably higher than the national average. Housing expenses are a significant factor, contributing to the overall cost (as reported by Payscale). This makes it essential for potential residents to carefully consider their budget when planning a move to the area.
When it comes to housing, the median home price in Lakewood was approximately $570,000 in a recent 30-day period, showing a slight decrease year-over-year (as reported by Orchard). For renters, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,555 per month, which is slightly lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). Studio apartments are more budget-friendly, averaging $1,359 per month (as reported by Apartments.com).
Job Market and Economy
Lakewood, Colorado, has a stable job market with a variety of major employers contributing to its economic landscape. Key employers include the Federal Center, Jefferson County R-1 School District, and St. Anthony Hospital & Medical Campus (as reported by Livability.com). These institutions provide a range of employment opportunities across different sectors.
The average annual salary in Lakewood is approximately $58,179 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The unemployment rate in Lakewood was reported at 4.2% as of January 2026 (as reported by YCharts). This indicates a relatively healthy job market, though individual salary expectations may vary based on occupation and experience.
Climate and Environment
Lakewood, Colorado, experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average high temperatures around 87°F in July, while winters are cold and snowy, with average lows near 24°F in December (as reported by WeatherSpark). The city sees moderate annual snowfall, with December typically being the snowiest month (as reported by WeatherSpark).
Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with May being the wettest month, receiving about 1.8 inches of rain (as reported by WeatherSpark). The city enjoys a considerable amount of sunshine annually, with the clearest skies typically occurring from June through October (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The weather is generally comfortable for outdoor activities from mid-June to early September (as reported by WeatherSpark).
Demographics and Community
Lakewood, Colorado, is a diverse city with a population of approximately 156,868 as of 2024 (as reported by Data Commons). The median age in Lakewood is 38.2 years (as reported by Data Commons). The city’s population is a mix of various racial and ethnic backgrounds, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
The median household income in Lakewood was around $49,560 in 2024 (as reported by Data Commons). The educational attainment shows that a significant portion of the population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a well-educated community. This diverse demographic profile contributes to the vibrant community atmosphere in Lakewood.
Education System
Lakewood, Colorado, is served by the Jefferson County R-1 School District, which is one of the major employers in the area (as reported by Livability.com). The district provides educational services to a large number of students, with a focus on academic achievement and student development. While specific school ratings can vary, the district’s presence indicates a structured educational framework for families.
The quality of education in Lakewood is a key consideration for families. The district strives to offer comprehensive programs and resources to support student learning. Information on individual school performance and ratings can typically be found through resources dedicated to school evaluations.