First post here. I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $191,300 on average. Household incomes average around $85,452 in Noble. The median home value here is around $191,300, which is actually reasonable. The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 61--F, so the weather is moderate. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to.
Pros:
- Great weather
- Good job market
- Good schools
- Active local events
Cons:
- Rising rent prices
- Sprawl everywhere
- High property taxes
- Lack of diversity
- Homelessness issues downtown
What do you all think? The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
6 upvotes
8 Replies
sd_naomi
haha yep pretty much
38 upvotes
Everett Wright
honestly same experience here
36 upvotes
Evan
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 8 years. Moved from Tampa for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is decent - we have national forests 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Urban sprawl is real. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Waylon Adams
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely solid and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Old Town) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
23 upvotes
Avery
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
18 upvotes
Allison P.
wish I knew this sooner
16 upvotes
Peyton L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 36, moved here 10 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in West and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The school system situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for young professionals. solid vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Phoenix, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
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