Military spouse here. The unemployment rate is 5.3%, which is about average. Crime rate is something to consider -Jacksonville sits at 711.6 per 100K. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
0 upvotes
14 Replies
Dylan A.
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Oak Park area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Miles Cook
Moved here from Portland about 4 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to healthcare but Good luck with whatever you decide..
27 upvotes
Delilah Bailey
Can confirm, been here 1 years.
24 upvotes
Isabella Collins
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Charlotte it's average.
24 upvotes
Isaac Flores
same here
24 upvotes
oliver_soul
Used to live on the East side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
24 upvotes
Axel Jackson
I work in education here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. No regrets on my end..
22 upvotes
Cooper Watson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 51, moved here 13 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Old Town and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Affordable housing options
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The dating scene situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for couples. tough vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
22 upvotes
Matthew P.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
Evelyn
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The walkability is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
20 upvotes
Adrian Allen
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 12 years. Moved from New York for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
consulting is strong here. manufacturing 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 improving - we have national forests 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Bugs and humidity in summer. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Roman Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 2 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are pretty good. 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 public transit options. Can feel isolated. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
William Gray
lol so true
8 upvotes
Santiago Flores
I work in construction here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is decent. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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