I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $149,900 on average. Rent is about $1,035/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 7.6%, which is concerning. The median home value here is around $149,900, which is actually reasonable. Poverty rate is 19.8%, which is higher than I expected. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
7 upvotes
15 Replies
Mateo Watson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Phoenix about 13 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. No regrets on my end..
40 upvotes
Adam Wood
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 48, moved here 4 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Midtown and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The healthcare situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Portland, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
37 upvotes
Alexa
wish I knew this sooner
36 upvotes
Vivian Reyes
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is excellent in most areas.
34 upvotes
Daniel Ross
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great BBQ places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
33 upvotes
Mason Phillips
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 9 years. Moved from Portland for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 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:**
education is strong here. construction 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are challenging. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
urban_elijah93
nah I disagree
20 upvotes
Hunter Sanders
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Phoenix about 4 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is decent.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Anna M.
Moved here from Boston about 10 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to school system but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
19 upvotes
Daniel Carter
I've lived in Old Town for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The food scene scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
19 upvotes
Zoe Gray
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely average and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Downtown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
17 upvotes
Logan Ortiz
literally same
14 upvotes
Luca
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 55, moved here 8 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Maple Ridge and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The pet-friendliness situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Denver, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
11 upvotes
zoe_girl
I work in hospitality here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is tough. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
All Countries
