So, Poverty rate is 10.1%, which is around average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Anyone in a similar situation?
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Violet S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 7 years. Moved from New York for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Oak Park 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 high-paying job options. Homeless population growing downtown. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Hazel R.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Nevaeh
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Aaliyah H.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 15 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
33 upvotes
Kinsley C.
preach
31 upvotes
Luke Clark
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 43, moved here 12 years ago from LA. I've lived in Greenfield and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The food scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for singles. improving vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
28 upvotes
chicagofan2022
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Theodore Smith
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 13 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
18 upvotes
houstonguy2022
I work in healthcare here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is improving. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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