Random thought, Average temperature is around 79--F, so it's warm year-round. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Am I overthinking this? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
11 upvotes
12 Replies
Kai Mitchell
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 5 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
37 upvotes
Nathan G.
I've lived in North for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Close to major attractions
- The school system scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Good luck with whatever you decide..
37 upvotes
Alice L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 11 years. Moved from Charlotte for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have lakes 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 solid. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Far from beaches/mountains. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Adam Nelson
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
Bella Ramos
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 2 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are stable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Feel free to reach out with questions..
29 upvotes
Elijah
Bought a house here in 2024 and the quality of life is solid. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
22 upvotes
Nova Morgan
I'm a nurse and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is average and there's always something going on.
21 upvotes
Carter
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Savannah James
good to know, thanks
12 upvotes
Eli J.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 13 years. Moved from Atlanta for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are improving. 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. Urban sprawl is real. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
Carson Baker
yep
9 upvotes
Piper Anderson
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
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