OK so Born and raised here. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. It's a a smaller city city with about 78,703 people. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. The weather takes some getting used to.
10 upvotes
14 Replies
chicago_everett
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
40 upvotes
Mark H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 44, moved here 4 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Uptown and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The weather situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Boston, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K 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.
38 upvotes
Genesis M.
+1
33 upvotes
Christian Morales
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from San Francisco about 7 years ago. The main reasons were school and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are affordable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Silas Adams
facts
29 upvotes
Adeline White
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
27 upvotes
Mateo Patel
hmm interesting perspective
25 upvotes
Colton Hill
facts
24 upvotes
Brielle Hughes
been saying this for years
23 upvotes
urban_ethan56
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 5 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Ella S.
it depends on the neighborhood
14 upvotes
Caroline Thomas
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want outdoor recreation, then yeah this place is great. But if nightlife matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
3 upvotes
Thomas Y.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 5 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
1 upvotes
Christian Thompson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely underrated and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (South) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
All Countries
