Curious what people think. I'm single, late 50s, and Homes are going for about $301,200 on average. Median household income is $69,517, which feels about average for the area. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
23 upvotes
12 Replies
Wesley R.
I work in education here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is improving. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
40 upvotes
Leonardo Price
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 2 years. Moved from Seattle for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. finance 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is tough - 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 underrated. 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. Limited high-paying job options. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Joseph C.
bump
33 upvotes
Julia Jones
I'm a real estate agent and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
31 upvotes
Luna Stewart
I'm a physical therapist and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
31 upvotes
Levi Morales
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 4 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
29 upvotes
Ethan Long
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 14 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
23 upvotes
Jeremiah W.
as a local I can confirm
22 upvotes
Piper Allen
big facts right here
14 upvotes
Gabriella Myers
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
9 upvotes
Aaliyah Jimenez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Old Town) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
6 upvotes
sunny_mackenzie95
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 49, moved here 6 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Maple Ridge and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The outdoor recreation situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- East: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Nashville, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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