Longtime lurker here, Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Am I wrong here?
19 upvotes
6 Replies
Gabriel James
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
17 upvotes
Silas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 32, moved here 7 years ago from New York. I've lived in West and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The outdoor recreation situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from New York, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
15 upvotes
real_isaac91
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Tampa about 4 years ago. The main reasons were family and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong sense of community
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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is decent.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Leo M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Portland about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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