Hey, The median home value here is around $468,800, which is pretty steep. It's a a smaller city city with about 67,008 people. Poverty rate is 9.6%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,565/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Lodi sits at 350.5 per 100K. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. 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. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
14 upvotes
3 Replies
Willow
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 15 years. Moved from Phoenix for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2020 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have lakes 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Dating scene is rough. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
victoria_guy
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely decent and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
7 upvotes
Luna
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely solid and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.