Alright, The median home value here is around $188,000, which is actually reasonable. Poverty rate is 8.6%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Has anyone dealt with this? TIA! Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
13 upvotes
13 Replies
Allison M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
38 upvotes
Scarlett C.
preach
37 upvotes
Josiah
I'm a software engineer and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
Mason
facts
36 upvotes
Valentina Kim
accurate
33 upvotes
Isabella J.
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. weather used to be much pricey but now it's solid.
31 upvotes
Julia G.
couldn't agree more
27 upvotes
Autumn Taylor
Moved here from Baltimore about 2 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to school system but No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Jason B.
not my experience at all
17 upvotes
Easton Wilson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
13 upvotes
benjamin_runner
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 Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. education 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Rising rent and home prices. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Violet Watson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Charlotte about 7 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Feel free to reach out with questions..
9 upvotes
Isabelle Richardson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
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