Overview
Lakewood, California is a suburban city in southeastern Los Angeles County, just north of Long Beach and only a short drive from the Orange County line. It may not have the name recognition of Pasadena, Huntington Beach or nearby Long Beach, but Lakewood has long been popular with families looking for established neighborhoods, convenient shopping and a central location in Southern California.
Much of Lakewood was developed during the postwar housing boom, which helps explain the city’s distinctive character. Tree-lined streets, single-family homes and neighborhood parks are common throughout the community. Unlike some newer Southern California suburbs, Lakewood feels established and residential while still offering easy access to major employment and entertainment areas.
Housing is expensive compared with most of the county, but Lakewood can offer better value than many coastal communities nearby. For people who want suburban living without being too far from Los Angeles, Orange County or the beach, Lakewood is worth considering.
Quick Facts
- Population: 78,000 (2025 estimate)
- Median Household Income: $119,177
- Median Home Value: $827,200
- Median Gross Rent: $2,347/month
- Cost of Living Index: Approximately 170 (U.S. average = 100)
- Crime Rate: Generally around the national average, though rates vary by year and crime category
- Education Level: 32.7% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Walk Score: 58/100 (Somewhat Walkable)
Lakewood’s population, income, housing, rent and education figures come from the latest U.S. Census Bureau data. The city has a relatively high homeownership rate of 71.4%, which helps reinforce its stable residential character.
City Rating
| Category | Rating (5★) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | ★★★★☆ | Generally comfortable residential areas with variation by neighborhood |
| Schools | ★★★★☆ | Several solid public school options in and around the city |
| Cost of Living | ★★☆☆☆ | Expensive nationally but more reasonable than some nearby coastal cities |
| Job Market | ★★★★☆ | Convenient access to employment in Long Beach, Los Angeles and Orange County |
| Family Friendly | ★★★★★ | Parks, recreation programs and established residential neighborhoods |
| Commute | ★★★☆☆ | Central location but freeway traffic can be frustrating |
5 Pros of Living in Lakewood
1. A Strong Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Lakewood has the feel of a traditional Southern California suburb. Many neighborhoods consist primarily of single-family homes with sidewalks, mature trees and relatively quiet residential streets.
The city’s high homeownership rate also contributes to a sense of stability. Families who plan to stay in one community for many years may find this particularly appealing.
2. Excellent Central Location
Location is one of Lakewood’s biggest advantages. Long Beach is immediately to the south while Cerritos, Bellflower, Hawaiian Gardens and several Orange County communities are nearby.
Residents can reach beaches, Disneyland, downtown Los Angeles and employment centers throughout the region without living in the middle of a major downtown area. Interstate 605, Interstate 405 and State Route 91 are all accessible from the city.
3. Plenty of Parks and Recreation
Lakewood has an impressive park system for a city of its size. Mayfair Park, Del Valle Park and several neighborhood parks provide space for sports, walking, picnics and children’s activities.
The city also operates recreation programs for different age groups. For households with children, having parks and organized activities close to home can be a significant advantage.
4. Convenient Shopping and Everyday Services
Lakewood Center is one of the city’s major shopping destinations and the surrounding area includes restaurants, supermarkets and everyday services.
Residents generally do not have to travel far for groceries, shopping or basic errands. Lakewood has an average Walk Score of 58, meaning some errands can be completed on foot depending on the neighborhood, although owning a car remains useful for most households.
5. More Attainable Than Some Nearby Coastal Cities
No one would call Lakewood inexpensive by national standards. However, buyers comparing it with places such as Huntington Beach, parts of Long Beach or other coastal Southern California communities may find Lakewood more attainable.
The city offers many detached homes in established neighborhoods without the additional price premium that often comes with living directly along the coast.
5 Cons of Living in Lakewood
1. Housing Is Still Expensive
Affordability remains one of Lakewood’s biggest challenges. The Census Bureau reports a median owner-occupied home value of $827,200 for 2020–2024.
That may look reasonable compared with some coastal California communities, but it is still far beyond housing prices in much of the United States. First-time buyers may need a substantial down payment and strong household income.
2. Traffic Can Be Frustrating
Lakewood’s central location is convenient, but Southern California traffic comes with it. The 605, 405 and 91 freeways can become heavily congested during weekday commuting hours.
Surface streets can also get busy around major shopping areas. A destination that looks close on a map may take considerably longer to reach during rush hour.
3. Many Homes Are Older
A large portion of Lakewood was developed during the 1950s. That gives neighborhoods plenty of character, but buyers should remember that older homes may require updates.
Electrical systems, plumbing, roofs, windows and HVAC equipment are all worth checking carefully when purchasing an older property.
4. Limited Nightlife
Lakewood is primarily a residential community rather than an entertainment destination. There are plenty of restaurants and shopping options, but people looking for clubs, major concerts or a lively late-night scene will probably spend more time in Long Beach or Los Angeles.
For families this may actually be an advantage. Younger residents looking for nightlife may see it differently.
5. A Car Is Still Helpful
Although some neighborhoods are walkable, Lakewood is largely designed around the automobile. The city’s average Walk Score of 58 reflects that reality.
Residents living close to shopping areas may be able to walk for some errands, but commuting, visiting neighboring cities and reaching many entertainment destinations will usually be easier with a car.
Conclusion
Lakewood is not flashy, and that is part of what makes it appealing. Instead of relying on major tourist attractions, the city offers established neighborhoods, convenient shopping, neighborhood parks and a central location that works well for everyday life.
Families may especially appreciate the residential atmosphere, recreation opportunities and high level of homeownership. Professionals can benefit from access to employment centers in Long Beach, Los Angeles and Orange County without having to live in a dense urban neighborhood.
The biggest drawback is affordability. Housing costs are high by national standards and Southern California traffic can make commuting difficult. Many homes are also several decades old, so buyers should pay close attention to maintenance and renovation needs.
For people who can comfortably handle the housing costs and prefer a traditional suburban environment, Lakewood offers a practical combination of location, stability and community that can be difficult to find elsewhere in Los Angeles County.
