OK so Median household income is $78,183, which feels about average for the area. You can expect to pay around $1,275 for rent here. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Any advice would be great. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. The weather takes some getting used to.
3 upvotes
9 Replies
Jeremiah
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 54, moved here 5 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Old Town and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The school system situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. average vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K 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.
40 upvotes
Julia Anderson
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Springfield area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
sflover2024
I'm a marketing manager and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is average and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
bostonvibes2021
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 9 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into running, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
32 upvotes
Josiah Phillips
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Miami it's decent.
29 upvotes
Ruby Ross
nah I disagree
26 upvotes
Harper H.
I've lived in Sunset for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The food scene scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
21 upvotes
Zoey Gonzalez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is solid in most areas.
19 upvotes
denvervibes2020
As someone who grew up here, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much wild but now it's average.
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