First post here. I'm originally from Omaha and Median household income is $147,546, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Worth the trade-offs?
2 upvotes
11 Replies
Katherine B.
nah I disagree
37 upvotes
Mia Robinson
Moved here last year, no regrets.
33 upvotes
Theresa A.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely challenging and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Uptown) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
32 upvotes
Nicholas Collins
seconding this
30 upvotes
nola_lillian
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely solid and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
27 upvotes
Camila Richardson
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 4 years. Moved from Baltimore for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have biking 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Not very walkable outside downtown. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, 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.
20 upvotes
Teresa M.
I'm a pharmacist and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
16 upvotes
Brielle
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Downtown. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in marketing. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
8 upvotes
Charlotte Kim
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 31, moved here 9 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Old Town and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - 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 weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for families. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $70K-$100K 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.
7 upvotes
Ethan Patel
Saving this thread
3 upvotes
Mason M.
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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