I work in energy and Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. You can expect to pay around $1,602 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -Oro Valley sits at 47.9 per 100K. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
4 upvotes
7 Replies
Easton Allen
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
40 upvotes
Paisley Turner
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
37 upvotes
Caleb C.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Good luck with whatever you decide..
30 upvotes
Addison Turner
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 5 years. Moved from Charlotte for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is pretty 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 pretty good. 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. Winters are long and cold. Can feel isolated. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Alice J.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 14 years. Moved from Baltimore for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2020 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is decent - 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. West schools are pretty good. 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. Limited public transit options. Road conditions need improvement. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
4 upvotes
Alice R.
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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