What I wish I knew before living in Woodlawn CDP (Baltimore County)
OK so I've been here for 15 years and You can expect to pay around $1,440 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -Woodlawn CDP (Baltimore County) sits at 1,338.5 per 100K. The unemployment rate is 3.5%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Any help is appreciated. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
13 upvotes
14 Replies
Zoe Ruiz
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. weather used to be much manageable but now it's decent.
39 upvotes
Owen Hernandez
wish I knew this sooner
35 upvotes
Harold D.
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 9 years. Moved from Portland for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have desert landscapes 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 tough. 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. Limited shopping options. Homeless population growing downtown. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Adam Wilson
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The safety is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
26 upvotes
Greyson G.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 4 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
24 upvotes
Nathan Hughes
I've lived in Old Town for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- The safety scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
22 upvotes
Brooklyn
exactly what I was thinking
19 upvotes
Silas W.
Moved here from San Diego about 11 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to job market but No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Quinn Stewart
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 4 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
Jacob Clark
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
16 upvotes
Luke Nguyen
honestly same experience here
15 upvotes
Serenity D.
nah I disagree
6 upvotes
Santiago Wilson
I'm a HR manager and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.