Hey folks, We have two kids and Poverty rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Does this match your experience? The weather takes some getting used to.
5 upvotes
13 Replies
Delilah Brooks
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely average and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Fairview) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
40 upvotes
Greyson Castillo
it depends on the neighborhood
37 upvotes
Jacob R.
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
37 upvotes
Valentina R.
accurate
36 upvotes
Gloria G.
accurate
32 upvotes
sd_emmett
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 3 years. Moved from Baltimore for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. real estate 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:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are surprisingly good. 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. Limited public transit options. Property taxes are high. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Judy P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 2 years. Moved from Portland for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2020 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. consulting 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:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is improving - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Highland 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. Limited public transit options. Nightlife is limited. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Reagan King
I've lived in Midtown for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The outdoor recreation scene is decent
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Scarlett M.
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The pet-friendliness is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Amelia Turner
I've lived in Oak Park for about 10 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 LA, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
- The housing market scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
Eliana G.
I'm a nurse and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
10 upvotes
Stella W.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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