Random thought, I've been here for 18 years and It's a a small town city with about 12,565 people. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Let me know your thoughts. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to.
5 upvotes
14 Replies
Eli White
Used to live on the West side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
33 upvotes
dc_ella
I've lived in Oak Park for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The community vibe scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
33 upvotes
Zoey James
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The safety is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
33 upvotes
nola_skylar
I've lived in Westside for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The dating scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for singles. Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
columbusheart2024
+1
29 upvotes
Chloe B.
exactly what I was thinking
26 upvotes
Jordan Mendoza
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 28, moved here 8 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Westside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The cultural scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Diego, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$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.
16 upvotes
Caleb Baker
Moved here from LA about 12 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to cost of living but Feel free to reach out with questions..
14 upvotes
Emma
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to LA it's surprisingly good.
12 upvotes
Audrey Rivera
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Denver about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are pricey, gas is solid.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. No regrets on my end..
9 upvotes
Eli W.
hmm interesting perspective
4 upvotes
Eliana
same here
4 upvotes
ladude2021
following this thread
3 upvotes
Adrian Gray
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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