Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Poverty rate is 11.5%, which is around average. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Am I wrong here? It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
2 upvotes
9 Replies
Alexa Price
not my experience at all
40 upvotes
Matthew Johnson
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 LA for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. 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 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have lakes 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 tough. 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 high-paying job options. Dating scene is rough. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Nova Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 24, moved here 14 years ago from LA. I've lived in Highland and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The job market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 LA, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
21 upvotes
Kaylee Baker
Saving this thread
20 upvotes
wild_emma44
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
17 upvotes
Serenity Johnson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Oak Park. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
17 upvotes
grace_runner
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
16 upvotes
Bobby J.
I work in legal here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is average. No regrets on my end..
12 upvotes
Autumn Howard
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is housing market. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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