Random thought, With a population of 12,476, Forest is a small town. Poverty rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Has anyone dealt with this? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
9 upvotes
11 Replies
Naomi King
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is challenging in most areas.
39 upvotes
Julia Clark
wish I knew this sooner
38 upvotes
Ezekiel Reyes
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from San Francisco about 6 years ago. The main reasons were weather and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are established, gas is tough.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
36 upvotes
John Evans
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want public transit, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
29 upvotes
Jose K.
noted, appreciate it
29 upvotes
Ruby Carter
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely decent and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Sunset) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
24 upvotes
Doris B.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great craft beer places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
20 upvotes
denvervibes2026
yep
13 upvotes
lillian_walker
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great sushi places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
11 upvotes
Daniel M.
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
6 upvotes
Lillian Wilson
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Oak Park area are average. Kids love it here.
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