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Jordan J. best-worst

Top 5 things I love about Des Plaines

Random thought, My family moved here when I was a kid. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,435/month for a decent place. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. Am I overthinking this? The suburbs are where most families end up.
8 upvotes

1 Replies

Cooper Roberts
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a software engineer, 32, moved here 9 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Maple Ridge and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The healthcare situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Chicago, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.

**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
12 upvotes
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