You can expect to pay around $2,100 for rent here. Poverty rate is 14.0%, which is around average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Thoughts? Thanks for reading.
5 upvotes
11 Replies
Hannah
Came here for family and stayed because I'm still on the fence after all this time. The safety is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
39 upvotes
Ariana Roberts
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 7 years. Moved from Tampa for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. tech 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 wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is tough - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown 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. Nightlife is limited. Limited shopping options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Ella Morris
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Wesley Mitchell
yeah no that's not right
33 upvotes
Mia Murphy
Totally agree!
25 upvotes
Serenity S.
I work in marketing here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is challenging. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
20 upvotes
Carolyn C.
Bought a house here in 2017 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
17 upvotes
Isabella Lewis
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 Miami for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking 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 challenging. 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. Can feel isolated. Bugs and humidity in summer. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Aaliyah Howard
literally same
13 upvotes
fresnonative2025
Bought a house here in 2020 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
3 upvotes
cincy_scarlett
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.