Been meaning to ask this. I'm retired and Homes are going for about $346,300 on average. Median household income is $83,917, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's a a small town city with about 14,163 people. Rent is about $1,420/month for a decent place. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. What neighborhoods would you suggest? The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
6 upvotes
7 Replies
Mackenzie Green
couldn't agree more
36 upvotes
Amelia Wilson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
33 upvotes
Harper Moore
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great BBQ places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
31 upvotes
Alexa Lopez
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Oak Park area are challenging. Kids love it here.
22 upvotes
Scarlett Martinez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 34, moved here 6 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Maple Ridge and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The cultural scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. tough vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Dallas, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
11 upvotes
luna_rider
I've lived in West for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Close to major attractions
- The housing market scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
9 upvotes
Oliver Walker
Bought a house here in 2019 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
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