OK so Rent is about $1,317/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Am I overthinking this? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
2 upvotes
8 Replies
Jayden Davis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 51, moved here 14 years ago from New York. I've lived in Springfield and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The outdoor recreation situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 New York, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $70K-$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.
32 upvotes
Hudson Flores
hard disagree but ok
26 upvotes
Noah Parker
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in South area are decent. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
Leo Price
I work in government here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is tough. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
24 upvotes
Brooks Brooks
wish I knew this sooner
23 upvotes
Levi Evans
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely decent and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job 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.
21 upvotes
Elena Robinson
couldn't agree more
21 upvotes
Greyson Thomas
I've lived in Old Town for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
- The walkability scene is solid
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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