Longtime lurker here, Born and raised here. Average temperature is around 67--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 6.8%, which is concerning. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
15 upvotes
14 Replies
Brian C.
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great farm-to-table places. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
31 upvotes
Serenity
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The healthcare is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
30 upvotes
Ruby Foster
Moved here last year, no regrets.
29 upvotes
levi_kid
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
piper_kid
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Pine Hills area are challenging. Kids love it here.
19 upvotes
Piper Brown
glad someone said it
14 upvotes
naomi_mama
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 1 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Peyton Castillo
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
12 upvotes
Carter Wilson
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want food scene, then yeah this place is great. But if food scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
8 upvotes
Easton P.
I've lived in East for about 7 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 Boston, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
- The dating scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
6 upvotes
Liam K.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
5 upvotes
Carter Ortiz
This.
2 upvotes
Jeremiah Nelson
glad someone said it
1 upvotes
kennedy_rider
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Phoenix about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Definitely worth checking out..
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