Hey everyone, I work in food service and It's a a small town city with about 16,168 people. You can expect to pay around $1,298 for rent here. Poverty rate is 7.5%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up.
11 upvotes
6 Replies
Natalie Rodriguez
been saying this for years
37 upvotes
Dominic K.
not my experience at all
35 upvotes
Brielle Kelly
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 8 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
35 upvotes
Axel G.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
32 upvotes
Miles Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 28, moved here 4 years ago from New York. I've lived in Pine Hills and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The walkability situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for families. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 New York, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
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