Born and raised here. Poverty rate is 11.2%, which is around average. With a population of 1,324, Dawson is a small town. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Should I be concerned? Thanks in advance! Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
9 upvotes
12 Replies
Carolyn C.
not my experience at all
40 upvotes
Nova T.
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great seafood places. the quality of life is solid.
36 upvotes
Camila Chavez
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. No regrets on my end..
33 upvotes
Natalie G.
I've lived in Old Town for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
- The walkability scene is average
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for singles. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Dylan
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Zoe Young
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
20 upvotes
Theodore P.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Brielle
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely challenging and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Eastside) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
14 upvotes
Harper Sanders
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 2 years. Moved from Houston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2021 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:**
education is strong here. consulting 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 was the best decision I ever made. 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. West 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. Property taxes are high. Bugs and humidity in summer. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Arianna Evans
Bought a house here in 2018 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
9 upvotes
Elizabeth Jackson
yeah no that's not right
4 upvotes
Lydia Brown
Bought a house here in 2017 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone about the same since then.
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