Born and raised here. Poverty rate is 1.7%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Lake Oswego sits at 60.2 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $2,031 for rent here. Household incomes average around $140,441 in Lake Oswego. It's a a smaller city city with about 40,367 people. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
Pros:
- Growing food scene
- Close to nature
- Low taxes
- Good healthcare facilities
- Walkable downtown
Cons:
- Traffic can be terrible
- Rising rent prices
- Boring for young people
Any advice would be great. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. 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. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
21 upvotes
8 Replies
Reagan Jackson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
39 upvotes
Emma Morris
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely underrated and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Uptown) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. school system 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.
39 upvotes
Stella Lopez
I've lived in Oak Park for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- The dating scene scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Mia Turner
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 55, moved here 5 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Affordable housing options
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Can feel isolated
3. The community vibe situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 established. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
37 upvotes
Isaac
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is excellent in most areas.
29 upvotes
Thomas D.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 44, moved here 2 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Eastside and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The safety situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 San Francisco, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
28 upvotes
Lillian
noted, appreciate it
16 upvotes
Skylar Price
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
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