Hello, The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Lisle sits at 38.3 per 100K. Poverty rate is 4.3%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $106,173, which feels pretty solid for the area. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Let me know your thoughts. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
7 upvotes
13 Replies
Luna Foster
Moved here from San Diego about 15 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to public transit but Happy to answer more specific questions..
40 upvotes
Abigail Morgan
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 3 years. Moved from LA for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2019 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. Westside schools are underrated. 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 public transit options. Chain restaurants dominate. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Aubrey K.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
34 upvotes
portlandchef2023
Bought a house here in 2018 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
30 upvotes
Sadie Brown
big facts right here
27 upvotes
Charlotte C.
Bought a house here in 2015 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
26 upvotes
Matthew
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 53, moved here 10 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Eastside and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Bugs and humidity in summer
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The walkability situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Miami, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
24 upvotes
Riley Martinez
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Hazel Flores
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The weather is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
22 upvotes
Maya M.
hmm interesting perspective
22 upvotes
Matthew R.
Came here for retirement and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The community vibe is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
21 upvotes
kc_adam
I'm a writer and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
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