Not sure if this has been asked before, but The unemployment rate is 0.3%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 1.0%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 45--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $1,226/month for a decent place. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What do you all think? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
0 upvotes
14 Replies
Joseph Richardson
it depends on the neighborhood
38 upvotes
Audrey Ross
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if dating scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
37 upvotes
Abigail M.
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
30 upvotes
Alice Martinez
I've lived in Eastside for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good airport with direct flights
- The traffic scene is tough
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
Jose Taylor
bump
25 upvotes
genesis_kid
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 4 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
20 upvotes
Paisley M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Denver about 15 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
20 upvotes
Carter Castillo
100%
16 upvotes
Josiah Perez
I work in consulting here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is improving. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
14 upvotes
Hudson
bump
13 upvotes
Daniel Rogers
Used to live on the Fairview side, now on the Eastside side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
11 upvotes
Brooklyn Robinson
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Kinsley C.
I'm a teacher and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
5 upvotes
Logan B.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 11 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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