Hey folks, Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. Should I be concerned?
10 upvotes
6 Replies
Axel Thompson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 2 years. Moved from New York for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is tough - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town schools are average. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Road conditions need improvement. Homeless population growing downtown. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Joseph Jackson
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Feel free to reach out with questions..
34 upvotes
Sebastian A.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 8 years. Moved from Nashville for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are better than expected. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Summers can be brutally hot. Property taxes are high. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
mountain_everly65
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely average and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (West) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
19 upvotes
Aaliyah Miller
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely decent and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
9 upvotes
Piper Jackson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Chicago about 1 years ago. The main reasons were work and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.