Curious what people think. The unemployment rate is 2.4%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
3 upvotes
12 Replies
Carter M.
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
32 upvotes
Noah
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
30 upvotes
Emilia G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 4 years. Moved from Miami for my partner's job. 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 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. 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. Pine Hills 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. Winters are long and cold. Can feel isolated. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
nyc_thomas
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 14 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
27 upvotes
Joshua K.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
25 upvotes
Avery Kelly
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
16 upvotes
Matthew Chavez
exactly what I was thinking
15 upvotes
Angel Baker
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from LA and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Oak Park. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in tech. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Definitely worth checking out..
13 upvotes
Robert P.
facts
12 upvotes
raised_madelyn57
thanks for sharing
11 upvotes
Miles T.
Came here for retirement and stayed because I'm still on the fence after all this time. The housing market is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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