As a yungerman who grew up in Lakewood, I write this with a heavy heart.

Like many others, I always dreamed of building my life here. But after being married for a few years now, I’m beginning to wonder whether living in Lakewood is becoming unrealistic for regular young couples trying to make ends meet.

I understand that inflation is affecting everyone, and I know costs have gone up across the board. But it feels like prices here have gone far beyond normal inflation. At this point, I’m not even talking about housing anymore – many people have already accepted that they may need to move farther out to afford a home.

I’m talking about everyday living. Clothing, basic household items, shopping, and simple necessities all seem to come with increasingly higher price tags. Everywhere you turn, there’s pressure to buy the newest, fanciest, and most expensive options.

Can we please take it down a notch?

Not every yungerman or young family needs luxury. There should still be affordable, normal options for people trying to live responsibly and within their means. A community as large and beautiful as Lakewood should make room for everyone – not just those who can afford premium prices on everything.

Many young couples are quietly struggling, and I know I’m not the only one feeling this way.

Sincerely,

A Concerned Yungerman

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