Hi all, I grew up here but left for a while. Rent is about $1,368/month for a decent place. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. TIA!
15 upvotes
15 Replies
Madeline Murphy
preach
36 upvotes
Addison Turner
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 7 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Joshua Ortiz
nah I disagree
32 upvotes
vegasmind2020
I've lived in Oak Park for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- The public transit scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
proud_piper96
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 13 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Aubrey King
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is excellent in most areas.
23 upvotes
Madeline
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Riverside area are improving. Kids love it here.
22 upvotes
Brian R.
spot on
17 upvotes
Hudson Cook
exactly what I was thinking
9 upvotes
Nora Rogers
I've lived in North for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Strong sense of community
- The outdoor recreation scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Roman Garcia
noted, appreciate it
4 upvotes
Robert
good to know, thanks
4 upvotes
Elena Lewis
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Phoenix about 6 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are pricey, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Feel free to reach out with questions..
2 upvotes
Alexa
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Baltimore it's excellent.
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