So, I'm a college student here and Rent is about $1,196/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 13.5%, which is around average. Homes are going for about $180,900 on average. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Has anyone dealt with this? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
13 upvotes
7 Replies
seattlevibes2026
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Sunset. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in finance. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
36 upvotes
Naomi Ramos
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Highland area are underrated. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Owen Scott
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
31 upvotes
Nevaeh White
lol so true
25 upvotes
nyc_jaxon
hmm interesting perspective
15 upvotes
Nolan L.
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. dating scene used to be much developing but now it's solid.
12 upvotes
Hudson Foster
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cultural scene used to be much reasonable but now it's improving.
All Countries
