Been meaning to ask this. We're a young couple and It's a a smaller city city with about 77,098 people. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Poverty rate is 14.9%, which is around average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. TIA! Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up.
16 upvotes
3 Replies
Benjamin P.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Highland. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in marketing. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
31 upvotes
Claire Garcia
hard disagree but ok
24 upvotes
Leo
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 12 years. Moved from San Diego for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2023 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is tough - 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 pretty 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Chain restaurants dominate. And job market 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.
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