Anyone else feel this way? Household incomes average around $105,395 in Carol Stream. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. What would you do?
9 upvotes
12 Replies
Anna Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 15 years. Moved from Phoenix for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2022 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are better than expected. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Bugs and humidity in summer. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Adeline Morgan
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely challenging and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
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.
34 upvotes
Hunter N.
I've lived in Westside for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- The public transit scene is solid
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Hope this helps!.
19 upvotes
Angel Watson
preach
18 upvotes
Allison M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
15 upvotes
bostonvibes2021
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
14 upvotes
Violet Garcia
noted, appreciate it
11 upvotes
Xavier Hernandez
Can confirm, been here 15 years.
10 upvotes
tulsa_mia
this is the way
9 upvotes
Nevaeh Richardson
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. dating scene used to be much pricey but now it's decent.
9 upvotes
Jack Lopez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 13 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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