Rent is about $2,172/month for a decent place. You can expect to pay around $2,172 for rent here. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Does this match your experience? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
8 upvotes
4 Replies
real_jonathan52
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 6 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. 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 hiking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Connor Phillips
hmm interesting perspective
32 upvotes
Grace K.
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. community vibe used to be much pricey but now it's hit or miss.
3 upvotes
Hudson Kim
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 48, moved here 5 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
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