So, The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
2 upvotes
10 Replies
Ella Phillips
preach
40 upvotes
Kelly P.
+1
34 upvotes
Quinn Morales
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 3 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
Carolyn T.
I'm a physical therapist and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
32 upvotes
quinn_life
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 2 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into running, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
29 upvotes
Christian T.
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
21 upvotes
Andrew Hughes
great question, following
12 upvotes
Camila King
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
7 upvotes
Bradley L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 33, moved here 1 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Downtown and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cost of living situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for couples. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Seattle, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K 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.
5 upvotes
cincy_scarlett
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Oak Park area are improving. Kids love it here.
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