We're a young couple and With a population of 45,538, Elmhurst is a smaller city. Homes are going for about $532,800 on average. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. What are your go-to spots? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
30 upvotes
10 Replies
Bennett N.
this is the way
38 upvotes
Jack Baker
I work in construction here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is excellent. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
35 upvotes
Cora Turner
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 9 years. Moved from Atlanta for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are challenging. 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. Limited high-paying job options. Limited shopping options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Emily Castillo
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 30, moved here 1 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Downtown and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The housing market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Dallas, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
26 upvotes
Melanie Edwards
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Baltimore about 12 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good healthcare facilities
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is average.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
24 upvotes
Andrew P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 5 years ago. The main reasons were work and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are affordable, gas is improving.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.
19 upvotes
Everett Alvarez
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
16 upvotes
Elizabeth Gutierrez
not my experience at all
9 upvotes
Gabriella Howard
been saying this for years
9 upvotes
Bella Ward
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Definitely worth checking out..
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