OK so I've been here for 18 years and You can expect to pay around $966 for rent here. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Let me know your thoughts.
8 upvotes
11 Replies
Xavier James
Moved here from Nashville about 6 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to weather but Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Amelia W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 9 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Leo Peterson
exactly what I was thinking
33 upvotes
julia_vibes
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is challenging in most areas.
31 upvotes
Mackenzie M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely underrated and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (East) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Bugs and humidity in summer.
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.
25 upvotes
Michael Lee
Saving this thread
21 upvotes
Timothy C.
As someone who grew up here, it's exactly what I was looking for. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much established but now it's solid.
18 upvotes
chicagoheart2021
literally same
16 upvotes
Camila T.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Hope this helps!.
9 upvotes
Kennedy Anderson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
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