It's a a small town city with about 18,263 people. Rent is about $1,793/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. Median household income is $127,453, which feels pretty solid for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Any help is appreciated. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
3 upvotes
12 Replies
Donna G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 7 years. Moved from Baltimore for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. North schools are solid. 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. Far from beaches/mountains. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Weston Ward
I work in consulting here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Definitely worth checking out..
33 upvotes
Mackenzie Phillips
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, 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
- Decent public transit for the size
- The dating scene scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Rising rent and home prices
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
23 upvotes
Samuel Bailey
spot on
19 upvotes
Natalie H.
thanks for sharing
13 upvotes
Kinsley
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
13 upvotes
Delilah Brooks
it depends on the neighborhood
9 upvotes
Natalie
good to know, thanks
9 upvotes
Jose G.
seconding this
7 upvotes
Nova S.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 10 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
4 upvotes
Scarlett Hernandez
I've lived in Eastside for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The traffic scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
3 upvotes
Aurora J.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 15 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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