Not sure if this has been asked before, but The median home value here is around $349,300, which seems about average. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
10 upvotes
13 Replies
Christian L.
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The weather is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Luca
spot on
32 upvotes
Ethan Brown
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 9 years. Moved from Nashville for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. East 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Theodore R.
I'm a social worker and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
25 upvotes
river_carter89
Bought a house here in 2015 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
23 upvotes
Naomi L.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The public transit is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
22 upvotes
Lydia M.
Can confirm, been here 3 years.
22 upvotes
Denise J.
preach
20 upvotes
Adrian Young
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 42, moved here 12 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Midtown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The public transit situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 San Francisco, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
20 upvotes
Violet Ward
Came here for retirement and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor recreation is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
17 upvotes
Luke M.
I've lived in Oak Park for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
- The housing market scene is tough
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Good luck with whatever you decide..
14 upvotes
Gabriel
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
10 upvotes
James James
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is improving in most areas.
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