Curious what people think. We're a young couple and Homes are going for about $1,238,700 on average. Poverty rate is 6.7%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $1,238,700, which is pretty steep. Median household income is $172,604, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 2.0%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. Would love some local perspective. Thanks for reading. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Olivia
hard disagree but ok
40 upvotes
Cooper Richardson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is improving in most areas.
38 upvotes
Colton Hughes
This.
27 upvotes
Jameson G.
following this thread
19 upvotes
Mason Patel
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Minneapolis it's excellent.
18 upvotes
Violet Ramos
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is solid in most areas.
17 upvotes
Skylar Brooks
I've lived in Oak Park for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The cost of living scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
Ruby Campbell
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
15 upvotes
Ezra Cox
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
Dominic Long
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 14 years. Moved from Tampa for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are tough. 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. Winters are long and cold. Chain restaurants dominate. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Xavier Martinez
bump
9 upvotes
Luca Myers
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
8 upvotes
Jerry C.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 3 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to healthcare but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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