The unemployment rate is 1.6%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $451,600 on average. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
9 upvotes
11 Replies
Serenity King
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The weather is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
40 upvotes
Michael T.
Moved here from Portland about 6 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to nightlife but No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Alexa T.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
35 upvotes
Skylar
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 42, moved here 15 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in The Heights and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cultural scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for young professionals. underrated 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 Minneapolis, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
34 upvotes
Zoe Green
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Chicago about 5 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is tough.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..
11 upvotes
william_mind
I work in retail here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is improving. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
11 upvotes
Carson
couldn't agree more
10 upvotes
Willow
big facts right here
8 upvotes
Audrey Torres
Bought a house here in 2022 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
7 upvotes
Kennedy
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cultural scene, then yeah this place is great. But if school system matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
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