There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
5 upvotes
5 Replies
Adeline White
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Downtown. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in marketing. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Lily Hall
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 15 years. Moved from LA for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have hiking trails 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 average. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited high-paying job options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Abigail Harris
Moved here from Portland about 1 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to dating scene but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
25 upvotes
Leo Watson
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Sunset area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
11 upvotes
Levi H.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely challenging and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Downtown) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living 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.
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