Homes are going for about $595,400 on average. Rent is about $1,795/month for a decent place. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. What neighborhoods would you suggest? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
23 upvotes
12 Replies
Bella Diaz
Bought a house here in 2021 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
39 upvotes
fresno_alexander
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor recreation is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
34 upvotes
jacob_mama
wish I knew this sooner
31 upvotes
Colton R.
I've lived in Uptown for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good airport with direct flights
- The cost of living scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
26 upvotes
Clara Martin
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because I'm still on the fence after all this time. The school system is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
24 upvotes
Mason
Moved here from Boston about 11 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to public transit but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
20 upvotes
Gabriella P.
Used to live on the Cedar Grove side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
18 upvotes
Vivian Brooks
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
13 upvotes
Rylee Clark
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 2 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are hit or miss. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Bugs and humidity in summer. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
coastal_wyatt92
hard disagree but ok
7 upvotes
Sebastian S.
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 1 years. Moved from Charlotte for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2018 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. marketing 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:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have national forests 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 decent. 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 high-paying job options. Far from beaches/mountains. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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