Not sure if this has been asked before, but I've been here for 6 years and Homes are going for about $274,700 on average. Poverty rate is 1.8%, which is pretty low. With a population of 1,522, Runaway Bay is a small town. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
8 upvotes
15 Replies
Serenity King
Moved here last year, no regrets.
39 upvotes
Caroline Mitchell
Saving this thread
34 upvotes
Jonathan Watson
yeah no that's not right
33 upvotes
Hailey Hernandez
+1
24 upvotes
Leo Ramos
Moved here from Denver about 7 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to safety but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
24 upvotes
Riley Diaz
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
24 upvotes
Jackson Flores
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Barbara S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 4 years. Moved from Houston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. healthcare 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Downtown 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. Can feel isolated. Far from beaches/mountains. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
David Sanders
preach
17 upvotes
Daniel T.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from San Diego about 1 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Hope this helps!.
17 upvotes
Samuel Howard
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much pricey but now it's excellent.
7 upvotes
Aaron C.
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The public transit is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
6 upvotes
living_ian11
noted, appreciate it
5 upvotes
Declan Ramirez
Moved here from Dallas about 13 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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