Hello, We have two kids and Median household income is $209,137, which feels pretty solid for the area. Homes are going for about $1,412,500 on average. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I wrong here?
2 upvotes
10 Replies
Connor M.
This.
37 upvotes
Lucy Hall
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Miami about 14 years ago. The main reasons were work and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are competitive, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Hope this helps!.
32 upvotes
Harper Hernandez
noted, appreciate it
32 upvotes
Kaylee L.
lol so true
29 upvotes
Marie H.
I work in finance here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is tough. Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Kinsley Ward
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 15 years. Moved from LA for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are improving. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Chain restaurants dominate. Can feel isolated. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Claire
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in South. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in education. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Joan N.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in North. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in government. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Asian.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
Ariana Brown
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
9 upvotes
Xavier
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 36, moved here 8 years ago from LA. I've lived in Riverside and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The dating scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 LA, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
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