So, Been living here since 2006. Rent is about $3,501/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 1.5%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
5 upvotes
10 Replies
Bennett Sanchez
I've lived in Old Town for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The safety scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Feel free to reach out with questions..
39 upvotes
Willie P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 41, moved here 12 years ago from LA. I've lived in Fairview and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Property taxes are high
3. The healthcare situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for families. better than expected 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 LA, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
38 upvotes
Jack Baker
lol so true
37 upvotes
Ella
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great Korean places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
25 upvotes
Aiden Young
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 1 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts 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 underrated. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Property taxes are high. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Hunter Roberts
literally same
14 upvotes
Sandra W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 49, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Midtown and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good airport with direct flights
2. Diverse dining options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The outdoor recreation situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for families. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 San Diego, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
7 upvotes
Jayden Peterson
Moved here last year, no regrets.
4 upvotes
dallaswalker2022
exactly what I was thinking
4 upvotes
Colton W.
I've lived in Sunset for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- The healthcare scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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