First post here. I work in logistics and You can expect to pay around $1,389 for rent here. Median household income is $83,798, which feels pretty solid for the area. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. Thanks for reading.
2 upvotes
6 Replies
Addison Foster
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
35 upvotes
Brielle G.
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Maple Ridge area are challenging. Kids love it here.
29 upvotes
Aria Nguyen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 5 years. Moved from Chicago for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are better than expected. 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. Limited shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Eli Taylor
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 4 years. Moved from Dallas for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is tough - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood schools are tough. 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. Winters are long and cold. Property taxes are high. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Sadie
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to Salt Lake City it's excellent.
12 upvotes
Landon Ortiz
I've lived in Old Town for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong job market in several industries
- The healthcare scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for families. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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