So, We're a young couple and Homes are going for about $600,600 on average. The median home value here is around $600,600, which is pretty steep. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. Thoughts? Any help is appreciated. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
18 upvotes
9 Replies
Jordan Parker
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
40 upvotes
Evelyn C.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Korean places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
34 upvotes
Gabriella M.
I'm a data analyst and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
27 upvotes
kaylee_mind
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The weather scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Henry Myers
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 39, moved here 8 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Meadowbrook and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The housing market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Dallas, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K 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.
27 upvotes
milwaukee_jackson
I work in finance here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is excellent. Hope this helps!.
17 upvotes
Olivia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 31, moved here 5 years ago from Boston. I've lived in The Heights and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Boston, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
17 upvotes
Everly
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
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