Anyone else feel this way? I'm single, late 50s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Fairfax sits at 72.9 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $2,122 for rent here. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
12 upvotes
15 Replies
mesamind2025
yep
40 upvotes
Hazel Nelson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
39 upvotes
Lori C.
I'm a contractor and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
38 upvotes
Owen
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The healthcare is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
34 upvotes
Ezra Richardson
not my experience at all
32 upvotes
Isla Carter
Used to live on the Uptown side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
28 upvotes
Sophie Smith
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
28 upvotes
William P.
lol so true
22 upvotes
Aurora Parker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely average and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Sunset) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
19 upvotes
Santiago
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 1 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are pricey, gas is challenging.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
jaxlife2026
haha yep pretty much
17 upvotes
Addison Howard
great question, following
14 upvotes
Adam Parker
been saying this for years
12 upvotes
Julia Sanders
Totally agree!
9 upvotes
Madelyn
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the South side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
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