Hi all, We have two kids and The unemployment rate is 1.6%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $192,700 on average. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Should I be concerned? Thanks for reading. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
4 upvotes
6 Replies
Avery Cruz
same here
36 upvotes
Wyatt Rogers
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 51, moved here 14 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Sunset and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Property taxes are high
3. The nightlife situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. excellent 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 Houston, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
34 upvotes
Isaac Jimenez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 43, moved here 15 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Fairview and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Nashville, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K 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.
31 upvotes
nashvillelife2021
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 26, moved here 4 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Sunset and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited shopping options
3. The housing market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Charlotte, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
29 upvotes
Riley Lee
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 13 years. Moved from Austin for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2017 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. construction 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:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is decent - we have hiking 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 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. Urban sprawl is real. Dating scene is rough. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Zoey S.
Came here for retirement and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The pet-friendliness is honestly tough and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
All Countries
