Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Household incomes average around $94,303 in Des Plaines. You can expect to pay around $1,435 for rent here. Rent is about $1,435/month for a decent place. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
3 upvotes
5 Replies
Genesis B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 25, moved here 1 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in North and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The weather situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K 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.
35 upvotes
Benjamin Cook
I've lived in South for about 11 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 Denver, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good airport with direct flights
- The weather scene is decent
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
33 upvotes
Addison J.
I've lived in Springfield for about 7 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 walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good healthcare facilities
- The food scene scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Clara
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 42, moved here 12 years ago from LA. I've lived in Westside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The cultural scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 LA, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$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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