Curious what people think. Average temperature is around 61--F, so the weather is moderate. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Worth the trade-offs? The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
22 upvotes
7 Replies
Everett Parker
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
27 upvotes
Olivia W.
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 10 years. Moved from Miami for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**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 tough - we have biking 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 decent. 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. Nightlife is limited. Urban sprawl is real. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Brooks Gonzalez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely excellent and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Sunset) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
25 upvotes
Carter Wilson
nah I disagree
21 upvotes
Mia C.
bump
20 upvotes
Elijah Thompson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 5 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
14 upvotes
Katherine Jimenez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 6 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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