Anyone else feel this way? Rent is about $1,903/month for a decent place. Worth the trade-offs?
9 upvotes
14 Replies
claire_chef
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
39 upvotes
philly_alexander
Moved here from Baltimore about 4 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to traffic but Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
Eleanor Cox
glad someone said it
23 upvotes
Eliana G.
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The traffic is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
17 upvotes
Noah P.
facts
16 upvotes
samuel_living
been saying this for years
16 upvotes
Paisley G.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
15 upvotes
John
honestly same experience here
12 upvotes
Nicholas Parker
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Phoenix about 6 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
11 upvotes
Aria Carter
noted, appreciate it
9 upvotes
Addison Sanchez
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 14 years. Moved from Atlanta for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is average - we have desert landscapes 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 excellent. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Nightlife is limited. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Doris W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 5 years. Moved from Atlanta for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is improving - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Riverside 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. Can feel isolated. Limited shopping options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
4 upvotes
Autumn Scott
I'm a accountant and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is solid and there's always something going on.