Hi all, The unemployment rate is 1.7%, which is pretty low. Worth the trade-offs? The weather takes some getting used to.
7 upvotes
6 Replies
Jayden
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Oak Park area are challenging. Kids love it here.
21 upvotes
Madeline Morris
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 1 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Adam Gutierrez
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The job market is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
10 upvotes
Nora Cooper
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 58, moved here 2 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Pine Hills and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Close to major attractions
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The healthcare situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Houston, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
9 upvotes
Willow Collins
good to know, thanks
8 upvotes
Camila J.
I'm a software engineer and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.