Hey folks, I'm a nurse at the local hospital and The median home value here is around $264,600, which seems about average. The suburbs are where most families end up. Appreciate any input. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
15 upvotes
13 Replies
Zoey S.
I work in healthcare here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is decent. Definitely worth checking out..
40 upvotes
Zoey
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 30, moved here 8 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Westside and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The housing market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Seattle, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
36 upvotes
Aria Y.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Nashville it's excellent.
36 upvotes
Gabriel Edwards
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Asian places. it was the best decision I ever made.
36 upvotes
Benjamin Watson
wish I knew this sooner
33 upvotes
Alexa Taylor
yep
32 upvotes
Caleb W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Portland about 14 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
30 upvotes
Nathan Rivera
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 13 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
27 upvotes
Nova
underrated comment
24 upvotes
Quinn Bailey
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The healthcare is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
22 upvotes
Emilia Nelson
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Happy to answer more specific questions..
18 upvotes
adeline_guy
seconding this
13 upvotes
indygirl2023
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
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