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Abigail Collins
living
Why I chose Urbandale over bigger cities
So, Poverty rate is 4.5%, which is pretty low. Is this normal for Urbandale?
19 upvotes
10 Replies
Sadie Edwards
I'm a project manager and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
Delilah Walker
I've lived in South for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
- The school system scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Feel free to reach out with questions..
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
- The school system scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Feel free to reach out with questions..
36 upvotes
Barbara F.
seconding this
36 upvotes
Sadie Brown
Moved here from Phoenix about 10 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to nightlife but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
23 upvotes
Kayden H.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
22 upvotes
Allison M.
haha yep pretty much
18 upvotes
Robert Cooper
great question, following
9 upvotes
Julian Young
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
9 upvotes
proud_jaxon98
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Denver about 4 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is challenging.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Hope this helps!.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Denver about 4 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is challenging.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Hope this helps!.
6 upvotes
Lydia Ramos
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 5 years. Moved from San Diego for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2024 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is average - 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 better than expected. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Summers can be brutally hot. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Old Town for 5 years. Moved from San Diego for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2024 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is average - 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 better than expected. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Summers can be brutally hot. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
3 upvotes