Random thought, I'm a college student here and Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Should I be concerned?
19 upvotes
5 Replies
portland_nova
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in South. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Korean.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
Zoe Gutierrez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 8 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into running, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
happy_john40
as a local I can confirm
20 upvotes
Dominic Stewart
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 4 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
18 upvotes
Wesley Torres
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 7 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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