Anyone else feel this way? Household incomes average around $51,439 in Calhoun. The unemployment rate is 1.3%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $785 for rent here. The median home value here is around $240,700, which is actually reasonable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Does this match your experience? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
2 upvotes
9 Replies
Maverick Cox
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Oak Park area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
Emily A.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
Roy S.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Thai places. it exceeded my expectations.
19 upvotes
Isla Bennett
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want housing market, then yeah this place is great. But if nightlife matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
15 upvotes
Naomi
I work in healthcare here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is excellent. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
14 upvotes
Brooks W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 14 years. Moved from LA for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is improving - 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. Downtown schools are challenging. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Carson
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
5 upvotes
Alexa
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much developing but now it's hit or miss.
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