Hi all, I'm a nurse at the local hospital and The unemployment rate is 2.4%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $3,174/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 3.3%, which is pretty low. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. Am I wrong here? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to.
22 upvotes
10 Replies
Piper Taylor
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 San Diego for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. construction 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 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. Old Town schools are surprisingly 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited high-paying job options. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Jameson Stewart
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Definitely worth checking out..
37 upvotes
Scarlett Morales
I work in consulting here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is excellent. Definitely worth checking out..
33 upvotes
Asher Wood
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Westside area are improving. Kids love it here.
27 upvotes
Gabriella Davis
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in The Heights area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
26 upvotes
Thomas Mendoza
glad someone said it
22 upvotes
sdmind2024
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
14 upvotes
Everett R.
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Pine Hills area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
7 upvotes
Logan
bump
3 upvotes
Santiago Gutierrez
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
All Countries
