Longtime lurker here, Rent is about $1,353/month for a decent place. It's a a small town city with about 16,138 people. The weather takes some getting used to. Would love some local perspective. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
5 upvotes
8 Replies
Brielle Turner
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Oak Park area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Kayden C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from LA about 9 years ago. The main reasons were school and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is tough.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
mountain_hunter14
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to San Francisco it's challenging.
6 upvotes
Peyton Foster
great question, following
6 upvotes
Alice Adams
facts
5 upvotes
Dylan Williams
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 15 years. Moved from Nashville for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are challenging. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
4 upvotes
Kai Rogers
Came here for family and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The walkability is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
4 upvotes
Wyatt Edwards
Bought a house here in 2015 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
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