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Julia Miller
best-worst
What Altoona does better than anywhere else
Not sure if this has been asked before, but Poverty rate is 13.
18 upvotes
7 Replies
Eleanor Hall
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Miami about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are wild, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Feel free to reach out with questions..
I'm a writer who relocated here from Miami about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are wild, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Feel free to reach out with questions..
30 upvotes
Mia Taylor
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 41, moved here 9 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Old Town and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The outdoor recreation situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Atlanta, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
Background: I'm a chef, 41, moved here 9 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Old Town and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The outdoor recreation situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Atlanta, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
23 upvotes
Leah Ross
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
22 upvotes
Elijah D.
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Asian places. it's been a really good experience overall.
22 upvotes
Aubrey Bailey
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Charlotte about 7 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is tough.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Charlotte about 7 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is tough.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
20 upvotes
Evan H.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is average in most areas.
5 upvotes
Julian
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
4 upvotes