Hey, I'm originally from Miami and Poverty rate is 5.4%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $228,400 on average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Should I be concerned? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
14 upvotes
7 Replies
Brooks Edwards
preach
35 upvotes
Hannah O.
same here
32 upvotes
Sebastian Bennett
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 11 years. Moved from Baltimore for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. manufacturing 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's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is average - we have lakes 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Homeless population growing downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Nolan Ruiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 42, moved here 11 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The community vibe situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
16 upvotes
Hailey Carter
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
12 upvotes
Nora O.
Used to live on the The Heights side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
12 upvotes
Joseph W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Chicago about 4 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Diverse dining options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is excellent.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Definitely worth checking out..
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