Curious what people think. The median home value here is around $864,100, which is pretty steep. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Am I overthinking this?
11 upvotes
5 Replies
Delilah Robinson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 15 years. Moved from Phoenix for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are surprisingly good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Levi Thompson
as a local I can confirm
21 upvotes
carson_mama
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 12 years. Moved from Houston for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are pretty good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Dating scene is rough. Limited entertainment options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
oaklandrider2024
I've lived in The Heights for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- The weather scene is tough
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
David Jones
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
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