First post here. My partner and I are Rent is about $2,025/month for a decent place. Household incomes average around $100,852 in Elmwood Park. The unemployment rate is 5.0%, which is about average. Average temperature is around 55--F, so the weather is moderate. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
8 upvotes
15 Replies
Isaac Jimenez
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The food scene is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Violet Mendoza
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Atlanta about 2 years ago. The main reasons were weather and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is average.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Definitely worth checking out..
40 upvotes
Natalie B.
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
38 upvotes
Isla Garcia
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to San Francisco it's pretty good.
38 upvotes
Naomi Young
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Baltimore and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Riverside. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
luca_rider
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The walkability is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
33 upvotes
Stella Lopez
good to know, thanks
33 upvotes
Brooklyn Davis
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
31 upvotes
Claire Baker
good to know, thanks
24 upvotes
Parker
Used to live on the The Heights side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
22 upvotes
omahachef2024
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The school system is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Mason M.
interesting, hadn't considered that
19 upvotes
Ellie J.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely average and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (West) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
12 upvotes
Greyson
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 9 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to weather but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
All Countries
