Curious what people think. I work in media and Median household income is $132,015, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 4.8%, which is pretty low. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Am I overthinking this?
1 upvotes
11 Replies
William Cox
noted, appreciate it
35 upvotes
Claire
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Austin about 13 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
Abigail Hall
I'm a electrician and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
29 upvotes
Isaiah Wood
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 8 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
Jace Long
lol so true
14 upvotes
Grace Howard
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Baltimore about 10 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Definitely worth checking out..
14 upvotes
Joshua J.
I'm a lawyer and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
8 upvotes
austin_joseph
glad someone said it
4 upvotes
Zoey
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
4 upvotes
Stella Thompson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
3 upvotes
oaklandmind2021
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Hope this helps!.
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