Hey everyone, Been living here since 2021. You can expect to pay around $2,025 for rent here. The median home value here is around $456,000, which is pretty steep. Crime rate is something to consider -Elmwood Park sits at 124.4 per 100K. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Worth the trade-offs? The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
11 upvotes
8 Replies
Everly Jackson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 15 years. Moved from Charlotte for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town schools are excellent. 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. Nightlife is limited. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Samuel Nelson
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want traffic, then yeah this place is great. But if cost of living matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
32 upvotes
Nathan Gutierrez
Moved here from Seattle about 8 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to walkability but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Jordan Baker
great question, following
15 upvotes
Asher Peterson
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
9 upvotes
Lucy
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
8 upvotes
Sophia C.
Moved here from Miami about 14 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to community vibe but Hope this helps!.
2 upvotes
Autumn T.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Tampa it's surprisingly good.
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