I'm a remote worker and You can expect to pay around $1,728 for rent here. Household incomes average around $98,798 in Dixon. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Does this match your experience? The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up.
14 upvotes
9 Replies
Dylan Clark
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
Brian E.
exactly what I was thinking
28 upvotes
Nathan B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 38, moved here 9 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in West and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The school system situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 San Francisco, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
24 upvotes
Maverick Richardson
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Midtown area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
21 upvotes
Emma L.
This.
20 upvotes
Isaiah
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are established, gas is tough.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
16 upvotes
Frances R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Raleigh about 8 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
Alice T.
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
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