Been meaning to ask this. I'm originally from Boston and The median home value here is around $286,500, which seems about average. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Would love some local perspective.
4 upvotes
13 Replies
Daniel H.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is solid in most areas.
24 upvotes
Eli B.
big facts right here
23 upvotes
Susan P.
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
21 upvotes
lake_everett83
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Happy to answer more specific questions..
15 upvotes
detroit_victoria
Bought a house here in 2024 and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Property values have gone about the same since then.
15 upvotes
Jose Lee
this is the way
14 upvotes
Miles Nelson
I've lived in Fairview for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Four distinct seasons
- The outdoor recreation scene is average
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
14 upvotes
Caleb Morgan
hmm interesting perspective
9 upvotes
Anna Johnson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 27, moved here 14 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Oak Park and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Summers can be brutally hot
3. The safety situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Raleigh, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
8 upvotes
Elijah W.
thanks for sharing
6 upvotes
Aurora Ramos
I work in tech here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is decent. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
6 upvotes
proud_hudson13
bump
6 upvotes
Isabelle Thomas
I've lived in Oak Park for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Four distinct seasons
- Affordable housing options
- The weather scene is tough
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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