Hey folks, I grew up here but left for a while. Homes are going for about $327,800 on average. It's a a small town city with about 1,094 people. Poverty rate is 3.5%, which is pretty low. Household incomes average around $91,042 in Thatcher. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. TIA! There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
14 upvotes
14 Replies
Vivian Ross
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Miami it's decent.
40 upvotes
denverfan2020
hmm interesting perspective
37 upvotes
Nora Perez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Midtown. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in real estate. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
27 upvotes
Mackenzie Kim
I'm a nurse and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
23 upvotes
oaklandkid2024
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want dating scene, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
22 upvotes
Piper A.
I've lived in Old Town for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The school system scene is underrated
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
21 upvotes
Henry
hmm interesting perspective
15 upvotes
Aubrey W.
been saying this for years
14 upvotes
Cooper Davis
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely underrated and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Riverside) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
13 upvotes
Jose
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 8 years. Moved from San Francisco for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have biking trails 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 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Limited entertainment options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
detroit_andrew
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Portland about 4 years ago. The main reasons were family and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Happy to answer more specific questions..
11 upvotes
greyson_fan
exactly what I was thinking
3 upvotes
Jeremiah Carter
big facts right here
1 upvotes
Jeremiah P.
Came here for school and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The healthcare is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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