Alright, Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is about average. Median household income is $102,700, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
0 upvotes
6 Replies
Hudson B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 50, moved here 15 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Highland and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The public transit situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Miami, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
39 upvotes
Aaron Kim
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 6 years. Moved from Tampa for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. real estate 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 was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have rivers 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 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. Nightlife is limited. Dating scene is rough. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Ryan 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 San Francisco for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have mountains 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited shopping options. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Grayson L.
glad someone said it
18 upvotes
Julia P.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
All Countries
