First post here. The median home value here is around $233,000, which is actually reasonable. Poverty rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $71,058, which feels about average for the area. The unemployment rate is 1.5%, which is pretty low. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Does this match your experience? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
15 upvotes
10 Replies
Adrian C.
glad someone said it
40 upvotes
Edward P.
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is housing market. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
39 upvotes
Hailey B.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
39 upvotes
Levi R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Baltimore about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are established, gas is better than expected.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Hope this helps!.
36 upvotes
Sofia
honestly same experience here
36 upvotes
Elijah Jackson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Dallas 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 Westside. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in tech. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
34 upvotes
Riley Turner
literally same
32 upvotes
Melanie Johnson
hmm interesting perspective
31 upvotes
Daniel Brown
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is housing market. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Madeline H.
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
All Countries
