Been meaning to ask this. My partner and I are Poverty rate is 13.4%, which is around average. You can expect to pay around $1,197 for rent here. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Thoughts? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
3 upvotes
13 Replies
Connor Richardson
nah I disagree
39 upvotes
Gianna Collins
literally same
36 upvotes
Sophia Mendoza
Moved here from Chicago about 1 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to healthcare but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
36 upvotes
Margaret O.
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 6 years. Moved from Phoenix for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
marketing 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 excellent - we have beaches 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 decent. 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. Bugs and humidity in summer. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Skylar H.
this is the way
34 upvotes
Emilia Gonzalez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 7 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Christian F.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cultural scene, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
26 upvotes
isla_living
interesting, hadn't considered that
22 upvotes
Luna M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 1 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2023 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. marketing 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 challenging - 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. South schools are hit or miss. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Chain restaurants dominate. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Cooper Ramos
facts
7 upvotes
Lauren H.
exactly what I was thinking
6 upvotes
Gianna C.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.