We're a young couple and Median household income is $109,348, which feels pretty solid for the area. You can expect to pay around $2,010 for rent here. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Would love some local perspective.
13 upvotes
14 Replies
Harper S.
I'm a nurse and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
38 upvotes
Benjamin L.
good to know, thanks
37 upvotes
Ezekiel Hill
been saying this for years
35 upvotes
Theresa A.
I work in government here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is challenging. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
34 upvotes
Ruth S.
literally same
31 upvotes
Connor Baker
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
26 upvotes
Hunter Gray
noted, appreciate it
24 upvotes
Ava
hard disagree but ok
15 upvotes
Adam Gutierrez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 14 years. Moved from LA for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2024 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. government 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is surprisingly 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. Meadowbrook schools are tough. 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. Dating scene is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Connor James
been saying this for years
12 upvotes
Cora
I've lived in Uptown for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Four distinct seasons
- The healthcare scene is decent
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
9 upvotes
Xavier Martinez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Boston about 6 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are pricey, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Hope this helps!.
7 upvotes
Savannah Perez
Used to live on the The Heights side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
7 upvotes
Samuel Mendoza
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 2 years. Moved from San Diego for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
manufacturing is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are pretty good. 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 public transit options. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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