Hey, We're a young couple and Homes are going for about $151,200 on average. It's a a small town city with about 15,339 people. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Does this match your experience? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
13 upvotes
12 Replies
Piper Hall
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Lakewood area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
38 upvotes
Brenda B.
good to know, thanks
37 upvotes
Jordan W.
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 retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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. consulting 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 been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is tough - we have mountains 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. Can feel isolated. Homeless population growing downtown. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Hazel Adams
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
32 upvotes
Amelia Mitchell
Bought a house here in 2023 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone about the same since then.
30 upvotes
Ezekiel Ramirez
Came here for weather and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The outdoor recreation is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
22 upvotes
Patrick W.
good to know, thanks
20 upvotes
Brooklyn Garcia
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
19 upvotes
Adam T.
Totally agree!
19 upvotes
Samuel Foster
not my experience at all
19 upvotes
James Howard
nah I disagree
11 upvotes
Naomi Nguyen
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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