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oaklandfan2025
best-worst
What surprised you most about Madison?
Rent is about $874/month for a decent place. Would love some local perspective.
4 upvotes
10 Replies
Mackenzie C.
lol so true
36 upvotes
Ezekiel
I've lived in Oak Park for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
- The job market scene is improving
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Feel free to reach out with questions..
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
- The job market scene is improving
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Feel free to reach out with questions..
25 upvotes
Andrew Hughes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 3 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - 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. Lakewood schools are better than expected. 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. Dating scene is rough. Limited entertainment options. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Lakewood for 3 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - 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. Lakewood schools are better than expected. 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. Dating scene is rough. Limited entertainment options. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Camila Bennett
Bought a house here in 2015 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
14 upvotes
nashvillerunner2020
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the The Heights side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
13 upvotes
Weston M.
hard disagree but ok
12 upvotes
Angel
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Asian places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
12 upvotes
David
hmm interesting perspective
10 upvotes
Ruby Rodriguez
The food scene here is average. Tons of great craft beer places. the quality of life is solid.
4 upvotes
Samuel Foster
+1
3 upvotes