My family moved here when I was a kid. Homes are going for about $480,300 on average. Crime rate is something to consider -Columbia sits at 593.4 per 100K. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. What would you do? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
29 upvotes
5 Replies
Everly
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much developing but now it's pretty good.
38 upvotes
Isaac S.
preach
22 upvotes
Reagan Jimenez
great question, following
22 upvotes
Matthew N.
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Cedar Grove side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
16 upvotes
Linda L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 58, moved here 14 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Springfield and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cultural scene situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Boston, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
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