Hi all, I'm originally from New York and It's a a small town city with about 21,574 people. The median home value here is around $306,900, which seems about average. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to.
8 upvotes
7 Replies
Isaac N.
noted, appreciate it
26 upvotes
Amelia S.
Moved here from Boston about 8 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to community vibe but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
20 upvotes
brooklyn_rider
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 6 years. Moved from Chicago for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have hiking trails 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 solid. 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. Nightlife is limited. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Savannah
I've lived in Downtown for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The walkability scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Happy to answer more specific questions..
10 upvotes
Thomas Lewis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 7 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. North schools are tough. 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. Can feel isolated. Limited shopping options. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
Jackson L.
following this thread
7 upvotes
mesa_hunter
I work in real estate here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is improving. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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