Curious what people think. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Thoughts? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
2 upvotes
13 Replies
Cooper Turner
noted, appreciate it
29 upvotes
Wyatt
literally same
28 upvotes
mountain_nicholas40
following this thread
24 upvotes
Joseph C.
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much competitive but now it's pretty good.
22 upvotes
Emma Young
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 31, moved here 13 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Midtown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The weather situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for families. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 San Francisco, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $70K-$140K 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.
19 upvotes
Everly S.
Came here for work and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The public transit is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
17 upvotes
Jonathan Collins
nah I disagree
16 upvotes
Madeline A.
couldn't agree more
9 upvotes
Savannah Brooks
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the South side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
6 upvotes
Elizabeth K.
Bought a house here in 2020 and the quality of life is solid. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
5 upvotes
Benjamin S.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The nightlife is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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