I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 4.7%, which is about average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Anyone in a similar situation?
6 upvotes
15 Replies
Isabella J.
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 14 years. Moved from Charlotte for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have lakes 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 decent. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Nightlife is limited. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Jackson Murphy
Moved here last year, no regrets.
34 upvotes
Jace Brooks
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Midtown. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in construction. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
piper_runner
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Limited public transit 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.
27 upvotes
Dylan Martinez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Denver about 12 years ago. The main reasons were weather and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is decent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Feel free to reach out with questions..
26 upvotes
Delilah
facts
25 upvotes
Wyatt Taylor
couldn't agree more
24 upvotes
theodore_runner
noted, appreciate it
22 upvotes
Levi Hughes
Totally agree!
22 upvotes
dallas_lucy
interesting, hadn't considered that
12 upvotes
Charlotte Nelson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
11 upvotes
Brooklyn C.
been saying this for years
10 upvotes
Mackenzie Lee
Bought a house here in 2017 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
10 upvotes
Jacob Ruiz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 3 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2018 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. Downtown 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. Urban sprawl is real. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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