OK so We have two kids and Median household income is $92,671, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Has anyone dealt with this? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
4 upvotes
6 Replies
Avery Brown
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 7 years. Moved from Houston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are underrated. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited high-paying job options. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Austin Wood
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from LA about 8 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are wild, gas is underrated.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
Vivian L.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Phoenix it's better than expected.
25 upvotes
Declan D.
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great farm-to-table places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
24 upvotes
tucsonkid2022
yeah no that's not right
24 upvotes
Elizabeth Hall
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 11 years. Moved from Boston for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are surprisingly good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Winters are long and cold. Bugs and humidity in summer. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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