Longtime lurker here, I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Homes are going for about $772,600 on average. With a population of 10,521, Fairmount is a small town. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $2,505 for rent here. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Let me know your thoughts. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
2 upvotes
11 Replies
Peyton Rogers
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 44, moved here 9 years ago from New York. I've lived in Eastside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The job market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for retirees. hit or miss 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 New York, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
40 upvotes
Alexander B.
hard disagree but ok
33 upvotes
Kaylee W.
I've lived in Midtown for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Close to major attractions
- Diverse dining options
- The job market scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
32 upvotes
Willow S.
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
32 upvotes
Eliana E.
following this thread
30 upvotes
Madeline Sanders
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
26 upvotes
Leah N.
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 14 years. Moved from Phoenix for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is average - we have desert landscapes 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. Limited high-paying job options. Limited shopping options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
everett_dude
I'm a writer and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
9 upvotes
Jaxon Anderson
interesting, hadn't considered that
8 upvotes
Ethan
yep
4 upvotes
Daniel G.
Moved here from Minneapolis about 7 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to safety but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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