First post here. I'm a remote worker and It's a a small town city with about 14,008 people. Median household income is $74,053, which feels about average for the area. You can expect to pay around $936 for rent here. Homes are going for about $219,500 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The city has invested a lot in new development. Should I be concerned? Any help is appreciated. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
15 upvotes
7 Replies
Gabriel K.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want job market, then yeah this place is great. But if walkability matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
40 upvotes
piper_kid
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Houston about 8 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
Natalie
this is the way
22 upvotes
Raymond P.
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 4 years. Moved from Chicago for a fresh start. 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 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:**
construction is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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 solid. 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. Urban sprawl is real. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
evelyn_papa
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 10 years. Moved from Nashville for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are solid. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Road conditions need improvement. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Chloe B.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Phoenix about 4 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Good luck with whatever you decide..
All Countries
