So, Average temperature is around 64--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. Household incomes average around $142,566 in Del Aire. The median home value here is around $878,800, which is pretty steep. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Thoughts? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
0 upvotes
14 Replies
Rylee Roberts
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 12 years. Moved from Charlotte for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
education is strong here. legal 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have biking 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 surprisingly good. 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. Nightlife is limited. Dating scene is rough. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Zoey Martin
noted, appreciate it
36 upvotes
Emily B.
wish I knew this sooner
34 upvotes
delilah_native
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Houston about 14 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is tough.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Good luck with whatever you decide..
28 upvotes
David L.
it depends on the neighborhood
25 upvotes
Frances C.
good to know, thanks
21 upvotes
Andrew Howard
been saying this for years
17 upvotes
Serenity Foster
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
16 upvotes
Benjamin T.
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Aaliyah C.
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
14 upvotes
Santiago Ramirez
100%
12 upvotes
born_kinsley85
yep
8 upvotes
Kayden Carter
I've lived in Westside for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Seattle, 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
- Lots of new development happening
- The walkability scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
7 upvotes
Katherine Phillips
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely improving and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Highland) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
All Countries
