Alright, I work in marketing and The unemployment rate is 2.3%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $351,600, which seems about average. It's a a smaller city city with about 91,730 people. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Am I overthinking this? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
0 upvotes
9 Replies
Isabella Turner
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 33, moved here 10 years ago from New York. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The job market situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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
Emma Wilson
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 13 years. Moved from Chicago for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same 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:**
education is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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 improving. 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. Dating scene is rough. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Melanie Carter
Came here for school and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The cost of living is honestly tough and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
34 upvotes
Ryan H.
seconding this
31 upvotes
Piper Morris
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Tampa it's tough.
28 upvotes
Audrey Martin
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
25 upvotes
Emily M.
I'm a sales manager and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
24 upvotes
Isaac Smith
hard disagree but ok
24 upvotes
Nathan
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Boston about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of new development happening
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is decent.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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