Curious what people think. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $986 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -Kankakee sits at 912.2 per 100K. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Does this match your experience? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
11 upvotes
3 Replies
Stella James
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is school system. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Jeremiah
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 43, moved here 6 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Westside and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Can feel isolated
3. The walkability situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Baltimore, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
24 upvotes
Theresa R.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 11 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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