I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Median household income is $121,189, which feels pretty solid for the area. Rent is about $2,114/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Exton sits at 239.3 per 100K. It's a a small town city with about 6,192 people. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Thoughts? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
12 upvotes
8 Replies
Allison Wright
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 15 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
32 upvotes
Austin Carter
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
25 upvotes
Tyler J.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 42, moved here 4 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Springfield and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Bugs and humidity in summer
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The community vibe situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Raleigh, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
23 upvotes
Quinn Rogers
I work in hospitality here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is challenging. No regrets on my end..
16 upvotes
Brooklyn Adams
I've lived in Oak Park for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
- The cost of living scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
Eleanor Harris
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is improving in most areas.
10 upvotes
Alice J.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to San Francisco it's improving.
9 upvotes
Cora
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in North area are improving. Kids love it here.
All Countries
