OK so I'm originally from Indianapolis and The median home value here is around $653,700, which is pretty steep. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
9 upvotes
7 Replies
Alice R.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely pretty good and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
37 upvotes
Emily W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from LA about 10 years ago. The main reasons were family and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is challenging.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Good luck with whatever you decide..
35 upvotes
Emmett Kim
literally same
31 upvotes
Parker C.
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Sadie Garcia
lol so true
14 upvotes
kaylee_guy
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 51, moved here 14 years ago from LA. I've lived in North and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. excellent 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 LA, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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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