Alright, The median home value here is around $211,500, which is actually reasonable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Should I be concerned?
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Eva Green
been saying this for years
38 upvotes
Aaron Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 12 years. Moved from Tampa for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2015 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. real estate 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are solid. 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. Property taxes are high. Limited shopping options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Mackenzie P.
yep
26 upvotes
Lydia Howard
preach
23 upvotes
Lucy Torres
great question, following
20 upvotes
Alexander M.
noted, appreciate it
19 upvotes
Eli Jimenez
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Highland area are excellent. Kids love it here.
18 upvotes
Sophie Richardson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely challenging and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
17 upvotes
Lydia Ward
Bought a house here in 2024 and the quality of life is solid. Property values have gone about the same since then.
14 upvotes
Zoey Mitchell
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is excellent in most areas.
5 upvotes
Aiden
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Cedar Grove side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
4 upvotes
houston_elijah
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Minneapolis about 8 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is challenging.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
Sophie Ruiz
I work in hospitality here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is excellent. No regrets on my end..
3 upvotes
Cameron Gray
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.