Working remotely from Midway CDP (Santa Rosa County)
Hey, The median home value here is around $352,600, which seems about average. Poverty rate is 7.0%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,668/month for a decent place. With a population of 20,745, Midway CDP (Santa Rosa County) is a small town. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Anyone in a similar situation? Looking forward to hearing from you all. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
12 upvotes
6 Replies
Emily S.
exactly what I was thinking
38 upvotes
Avery Nelson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 43, moved here 11 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Springfield and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Affordable housing options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The food scene situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for remote workers. tough vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Tampa, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K 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.
36 upvotes
Evan K.
wish I knew this sooner
23 upvotes
Sadie Richardson
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Carter 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 10 years. Moved from Chicago for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have ski resorts 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 challenging. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Can feel isolated. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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