You can expect to pay around $2,119 for rent here. Median household income is $126,295, which feels pretty solid for the area. Average temperature is around 55--F, so expect cold winters. Poverty rate is 6.3%, which is pretty low. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. 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. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
9 upvotes
3 Replies
Scarlett Reed
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 29, moved here 3 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Westside and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The job market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for singles. pretty good 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
29 upvotes
Catherine J.
I'm a teacher and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
14 upvotes
austin_ellie
I work in legal here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is tough. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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