Anyone else feel this way? My partner and I are Rent is about $925/month for a decent place. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Would love some local perspective. Cheers.
52 upvotes
14 Replies
Lydia Morris
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Jeremiah Collins
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
36 upvotes
Beverly N.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 5 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Caleb Diaz
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
31 upvotes
Helen M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 5 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
30 upvotes
Natalie D.
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.
26 upvotes
Abigail
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 Miami for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2024 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. education 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have hiking trails 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Nightlife is limited. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Nolan Diaz
As someone who grew up here, it's exactly what I was looking for. A lot has changed in the past few years though. walkability used to be much developing but now it's solid.
14 upvotes
Kenneth R.
I've lived in Downtown for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- The job market scene is decent
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for singles. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
11 upvotes
Emma Reed
I've lived in Riverside for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
- The safety scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
11 upvotes
Ellie G.
facts
10 upvotes
Dylan Jones
I've lived in Lakewood for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- The public transit scene is average
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Hope this helps!.
10 upvotes
Elijah Watson
nah I disagree
6 upvotes
Caleb Reyes
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
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