Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a 49-year-old physical therapist and Household incomes average around $90,625 in Parks. Poverty rate is 6.2%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $562,900, which is pretty steep. Average temperature is around 44--F, so bundle up in winter. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
12 upvotes
13 Replies
Silas Brown
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great Mediterranean places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
32 upvotes
angel_local
lol so true
30 upvotes
Gabriella Perez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
22 upvotes
Amy G.
literally same
20 upvotes
Isla Mendoza
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 1 years. Moved from New York for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2023 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks 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 challenging. 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 high-paying job options. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Emmett Long
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Downtown area are decent. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Abigail D.
yeah no that's not right
17 upvotes
Stella Thompson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 11 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Logan Jones
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is tough in most areas.
17 upvotes
Jackson Peterson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 8 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
Parker Allen
good to know, thanks
11 upvotes
desert_nathan72
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 13 years. Moved from LA for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. government 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:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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 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 shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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