Hi all, Just moved here 10 months ago and The median home value here is around $241,500, which is actually reasonable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
29 upvotes
15 Replies
Levi Reyes
underrated comment
39 upvotes
Eva Harris
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Highland. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in marketing. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like sushi.
No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Larry G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 13 years. Moved from Charlotte for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are average. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Nightlife is limited. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Leah Sanchez
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Riverside area are solid. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Julia Alvarez
yep
28 upvotes
Paisley Cooper
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Minneapolis it's hit or miss.
27 upvotes
Ian Anderson
Public transit is solid here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
24 upvotes
lanative2023
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Indian places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
22 upvotes
vegas_caroline
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is improving in most areas.
18 upvotes
Emmett Lee
Saving this thread
15 upvotes
austin_madelyn
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
11 upvotes
Ryan Parker
interesting, hadn't considered that
8 upvotes
Mackenzie Ramos
great question, following
6 upvotes
Victoria Mendoza
nah I disagree
2 upvotes
Santiago
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Oak Park area are tough. Kids love it here.