Hey everyone, Military spouse here. Median household income is $68,900, which feels about average for the area. The median home value here is around $266,000, which seems about average. You can expect to pay around $1,414 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -Belvedere Park sits at 148.2 per 100K. Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up.
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Good job market
- Friendly people
- Lots of new development
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons:
- Limited public transit
- Rising rent prices
- Limited cultural events
Thoughts? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Cooper Lewis
hmm interesting perspective
39 upvotes
Hudson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 3 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
37 upvotes
raised_eli47
been saying this for years
35 upvotes
Adam Walker
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Sunset area are underrated. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Leonardo M.
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Sadie Morris
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely tough and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
27 upvotes
Wesley Gomez
as a local I can confirm
26 upvotes
Willie D.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Midtown. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
25 upvotes
Jackson Flores
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 3 years. Moved from Charlotte for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. finance 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 surprisingly good - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are average. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Far from beaches/mountains. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Emmett Mitchell
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
6 upvotes
alexander_kid
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
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