Longtime lurker here, Homes are going for about $1,583,300 on average.
19 upvotes
6 Replies
Hannah N.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Minneapolis about 10 years ago. The main reasons were work and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. No regrets on my end..
39 upvotes
Jonathan Morgan
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 8 years. Moved from Dallas for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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 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. Rising rent and home prices. Homeless population growing downtown. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Kinsley Reed
Came here for school and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The cultural scene is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
36 upvotes
Kayden Nelson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 29, moved here 12 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Uptown and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The dating scene situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K 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.
27 upvotes
Samuel J.
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
24 upvotes
Riley Williams
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is underrated in most areas.