Lakewood, CA

Lakewood is known for its unique history as a planned community that was built after World War II to provide affordable housing for returning veterans and their families. The community was designed to be self-contained, with its own shopping centers, schools, and parks.

The city is home to several parks and recreational facilities, including the Lakewood Golf Course, the Mayfair Park Sports Complex, and the Monte Verde Park and Nature Center. Lakewood is also located near several major freeways, making it easily accessible to other parts of Los Angeles County and the surrounding areas.

The Lakewood city cost of living based on a US average of 100 is 156.5, slightly high than the national average. The median home value in Lakewood was $791,208 as of March 2023. The city has a relatively high median household income of $79,113 which is less than the national median household income.

City highlights

It was incorporated as a city in 1954 and has a population of approximately 81,000 people as of the 2020 census.

It is one of the region’s largest shopping centers and a popular destination for both residents and visitors. The Lakewood Center Mall first opened its doors in 1951. The city also has The Long Beach Unified School District, Lakewood Regional Medical Center, and the City of Lakewood themselves are among the area’s significant employers. The community also has a robust economic foundation.

Geographic location

Lakewood is located in the southeastern part of Los Angeles County, California, and covers an area of approximately 9 square miles. It is bordered by the cities of Long Beach, Cerritos, Cypress, and Bellflower.

The city is relatively flat, with an elevation of about 40 feet above sea level. The San Gabriel River runs along its northern border.

Climate

Lakewood has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average temperatures range from 60°F in the winter to 80°F in the summer.

Due to its proximity to the coast, Lakewood benefits from the moderating influence of the ocean, which helps to keep temperatures mild and prevents extreme weather conditions from occurring.

Demography

As of the 2020 Census, the population of Lakewood is estimated to be around 81,000 people. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2020, the racial and ethnic makeup of the city is as follows: White at 44.8%, Hispanic or Latino at 38.6%, Asian at 8.8%, Black or African American at 3.9%, and Native American and Alaska Native at 2.7%.

The average age of the population is 38 years old which is slightly older than the median age for California at 37.9 years old.

Cost of Living

According to data, the cost-of-living index in Lakewood is 156.5, which is slightly high than the national average of 100. In the same way, The median home value in Lakewood is around $791,208 as of March 2023. The rent of an apartment studio can cost around $1,940 monthly.

Transportation

Lakewood is served by various transportation options for residents and visitors, including highways, public transit, airports, bicycle paths, ride-sharing, and walking.

The city has a walk score of 63 out of 100, considered some walkable. This means that while certain errands can be completed on foot, many daily tasks call for a car.

Schools

Lakewood is home to good-rated schools including public, private, and charter schools, with a total of 21 schools. Whether public, private, or charter, these schools offer a strong academic curriculum and a variety of enrichment programs to help students succeed.

What is the city like?

Lakewood has a suburban feel, with quiet residential streets and several shopping centers and restaurants scattered throughout the city. The city has a diverse community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

It has a strong sense of community and hosts several events throughout the year, such as a summer concert series, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and a 4th of July fireworks show.

The city is a thriving community that offers a high quality of life for its residents and is a popular destination for visitors to the Los Angeles area.