The unemployment rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $118,093, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
3 upvotes
11 Replies
Mason Phillips
I'm a sales manager and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
40 upvotes
Isabella Rogers
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Baltimore about 3 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are affordable, gas is tough.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Good luck with whatever you decide..
33 upvotes
Ralph P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 5 years. Moved from LA for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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. 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 genuinely enjoy living here. 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. West 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. Urban sprawl is real. Far from beaches/mountains. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
nyc_declan
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Cedar Grove area are decent. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
Adrian Moore
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor recreation is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
25 upvotes
Sarah
I've lived in Old Town for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The community vibe scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
Ella M.
it depends on the neighborhood
17 upvotes
Delilah Bennett
wish I knew this sooner
16 upvotes
Xavier Wood
haha yep pretty much
4 upvotes
Stephanie R.
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Meadowbrook area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
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