I'm single, late 30s, and Homes are going for about $117,400 on average. Average temperature is around 46--F, so expect cold winters. The food scene here is surprisingly good. What do you all think? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
12 upvotes
6 Replies
Katherine
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from New York about 9 years ago. The main reasons were work and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Lots of new development happening
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are wild, gas is decent.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Leah Sanchez
this is the way
17 upvotes
Christian 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 2 years. Moved from Portland for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. consulting 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 have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have desert landscapes 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 underrated. 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. Property taxes are high. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Isaac Ramirez
Came here for work and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The walkability is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
11 upvotes
Ava Collins
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 3 years. Moved from Chicago for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. Pine Hills schools are hit or miss. 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. Limited public transit options. Urban sprawl is real. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
Cora
Bought a house here in 2015 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
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