Longtime lurker here, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 2.0%, which is pretty low.
1 upvotes
12 Replies
Jonathan Cox
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Charlotte and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Cedar Grove. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in finance. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
40 upvotes
miamilife2026
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Atlanta about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are established, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
39 upvotes
Carson H.
underrated comment
34 upvotes
Autumn J.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
30 upvotes
milwaukeemind2025
big facts right here
22 upvotes
Claire Flores
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
22 upvotes
Adam King
bump
22 upvotes
Anna Allen
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Downtown. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in legal. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Italian.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
18 upvotes
Joseph Thompson
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
16 upvotes
Nova Clark
good to know, thanks
13 upvotes
Gianna W.
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Oak Park area are decent. Kids love it here.
12 upvotes
Leah Ortiz
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The school system is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..