Longtime lurker here, We have two kids and Rent is about $2,026/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 2.0%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $2,026 for rent here. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. What are your go-to spots? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
21 upvotes
14 Replies
Landon Roberts
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
36 upvotes
Jace W.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is excellent in most areas.
35 upvotes
Eliana
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it exceeded my expectations. No regrets on my end..
31 upvotes
Maverick Ramos
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
27 upvotes
Gabriel G.
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
26 upvotes
Levi Adams
hard disagree but ok
25 upvotes
Brooks
not my experience at all
25 upvotes
Audrey Evans
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
20 upvotes
Miles Lopez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
16 upvotes
Nova
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 9 years. Moved from Tampa for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2023 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have rivers 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 better than expected. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Limited high-paying job options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Ezekiel Cooper
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is excellent in most areas.
11 upvotes
Charlotte Lee
noted, appreciate it
11 upvotes
Melanie Mendoza
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.