Hey everyone, The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,446/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Attleboro sits at 273.6 per 100K. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Let me know your thoughts. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
22 upvotes
21 Replies
jaxkid2025
Moved here from Nashville about 13 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to weather but Definitely worth checking out..
36 upvotes
Luna Jones
been saying this for years
33 upvotes
tucson_miles
been saying this for years
32 upvotes
Piper Ward
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely decent and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (West) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Can feel isolated.
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.
29 upvotes
Naomi Reyes
I've lived in Oak Park for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- The cultural scene scene is decent
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Hannah Price
noted, appreciate it
26 upvotes
Everly Brooks
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
Ezra Jimenez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 7 years. Moved from Baltimore for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. hospitality 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'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Property taxes are high. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Elena Rodriguez
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
21 upvotes
Michael Davis
+1
18 upvotes
Robert Scott
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The traffic is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
desert_aria99
facts
15 upvotes
Jacob Hall
noted, appreciate it
13 upvotes
Claire M.
preach
12 upvotes
ian_lover
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 2 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
Savannah C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely underrated and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (North) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
10 upvotes
Emilia Turner
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 13 years. Moved from Baltimore for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is average - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood schools are surprisingly good. 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. Bugs and humidity in summer. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
born_lydia42
honestly same experience here
4 upvotes
Leo Thomas
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely pretty good and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Sunset) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Can feel isolated.
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.
4 upvotes
Everly Myers
thanks for sharing
4 upvotes
Stella T.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely challenging and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
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