Longtime lurker here, I'm a 52-year-old physical therapist and The unemployment rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $79,660, which feels about average for the area. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Thoughts? TIA! The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
28 upvotes
7 Replies
Mia Gutierrez
wish I knew this sooner
35 upvotes
Evelyn Y.
accurate
27 upvotes
Ezekiel Parker
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 2 years. Moved from LA for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2021 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:**
education is strong here. retail 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have lakes 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. Winters are long and cold. Not very walkable outside downtown. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Lucas C.
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
20 upvotes
Jack O.
Used to live on the South side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
17 upvotes
Nathan Ramos
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great seafood places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
4 upvotes
Elizabeth Brown
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
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