Longtime lurker here, Poverty rate is 3.9%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Has anyone dealt with this? The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
2 upvotes
13 Replies
Joshua
I've lived in Old Town for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- The job market scene is average
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Rising rent and home prices
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Natalie Bailey
good to know, thanks
39 upvotes
Zachary R.
nah I disagree
39 upvotes
Brielle Rivera
Used to live on the South side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
35 upvotes
Carol F.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Miami about 9 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are stable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Caleb Moore
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much manageable but now it's decent.
26 upvotes
Hazel Hill
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is excellent in most areas.
26 upvotes
Ezra Price
I work in hospitality here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is decent. Happy to answer more specific questions..
21 upvotes
Zoe Bennett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from San Francisco about 12 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are developing, gas is average.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Good luck with whatever you decide..
18 upvotes
Jaxon
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
16 upvotes
Samuel Sanchez
Moved here last year, no regrets.
11 upvotes
Greyson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 39, moved here 13 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in North and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The dating scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for families. improving vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
3 upvotes
loving_nicholas90
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely solid and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (Westside) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability 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.
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