The unemployment rate is 2.3%, which is pretty low. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Should I be concerned? The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
7 upvotes
13 Replies
Amber R.
accurate
37 upvotes
Adrian Gray
as a local I can confirm
26 upvotes
Madelyn Baker
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Portland it's underrated.
23 upvotes
Kennedy Roberts
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The pet-friendliness is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
18 upvotes
Richard M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 58, moved here 2 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Eastside and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The healthcare situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. decent vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Chicago, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
18 upvotes
Elizabeth Hughes
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want dating scene, then yeah this place is great. But if community vibe matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
14 upvotes
Quinn Gomez
it depends on the neighborhood
14 upvotes
Olivia Gonzalez
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Lakewood area are decent. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Jaxon M.
as a local I can confirm
13 upvotes
Cora Hughes
I'm a electrician and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
8 upvotes
Everett
yep
7 upvotes
Eva Lewis
I've lived in Oak Park for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The job market scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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