Anyone else feel this way? I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 69°F, so the weather is moderate. Median household income is $67,760, which feels about average for the area. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What would you do? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
40 upvotes
9 Replies
Isaiah M.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 8 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to walkability but No regrets on my end..
40 upvotes
Andrew Thompson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely better than expected and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Highland) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
35 upvotes
Tyler O.
facts
31 upvotes
Maverick M.
this is the way
28 upvotes
Amy G.
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The food scene is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Virginia A.
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 4 years. Moved from Austin for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is tough - 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 pretty good. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Dating scene is rough. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Scarlett C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is decent in most areas.
21 upvotes
Isaiah G.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Meadowbrook. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in construction. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Korean.