Hello, You can expect to pay around $1,505 for rent here. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What neighborhoods would you suggest? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
26 upvotes
12 Replies
quinn_life
hmm interesting perspective
31 upvotes
Peyton H.
interesting, hadn't considered that
26 upvotes
Charlotte Evans
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Kaylee W.
bump
21 upvotes
Santiago
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 Pittsburgh for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. manufacturing 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 have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is improving - we have state parks 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 decent. 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. Limited public transit options. Limited entertainment options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Dominic Hill
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from LA about 5 years ago. The main reasons were school and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are stable, gas is challenging.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Hope this helps!.
19 upvotes
Violet R.
bump
18 upvotes
Isla Harris
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 11 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Santiago Morris
facts
16 upvotes
Walter P.
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The cost of living is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
13 upvotes
Santiago Mitchell
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Eastside area are excellent. Kids love it here.
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