Random thought, Homes are going for about $196,500 on average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
8 upvotes
3 Replies
Naomi Bennett
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 6 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
37 upvotes
Austin Peterson
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 Baltimore for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Old Town schools are improving. 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. Nightlife is limited. Not very walkable outside downtown. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.