Not sure if this has been asked before, but Median household income is $107,391, which feels pretty solid for the area. Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. The weather takes some getting used to. Any advice would be great. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
2 upvotes
15 Replies
Zoe Gutierrez
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Highland area are tough. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
Cora Edwards
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 4 years. Moved from Nashville for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Can feel isolated. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Parker Patel
hmm interesting perspective
32 upvotes
Skylar T.
Used to live on the Pine Hills side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
29 upvotes
Piper C.
it depends on the neighborhood
24 upvotes
Hunter Taylor
I've lived in Old Town for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- The cost of living scene is average
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
23 upvotes
Henry Wilson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Atlanta it's surprisingly good.
14 upvotes
Dylan Parker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 2 years. Moved from Denver for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Lakewood schools are improving. 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 shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Mackenzie D.
This.
12 upvotes
Jaxon Brown
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 9 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
11 upvotes
joseph_life
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from New York about 9 years ago. The main reasons were school and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is average.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
9 upvotes
Elena Brooks
lol so true
6 upvotes
tampalife2023
Saving this thread
5 upvotes
Sophia P.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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