Been meaning to ask this. Military spouse here. Poverty rate is 27.3%, which is higher than I expected. Household incomes average around $31,090 in Mathis. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. Has anyone dealt with this? Thanks for reading.
3 upvotes
15 Replies
mesadude2024
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (North) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
40 upvotes
Skylar L.
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
34 upvotes
aurora_lover
Moved here from New York about 13 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to traffic but Feel free to reach out with questions..
26 upvotes
Eli Gutierrez
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
Ariana Alvarez
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 14 years. Moved from Seattle for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Oak Park 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. Can feel isolated. Bugs and humidity in summer. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, 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.
23 upvotes
Scarlett P.
hmm interesting perspective
21 upvotes
omaha_delilah
spot on
20 upvotes
Mateo Ruiz
couldn't agree more
19 upvotes
Hazel
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The job market is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
16 upvotes
Axel Reed
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 11 years. Moved from Houston for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. construction 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 rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are tough. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited shopping options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Ruby C.
nah I disagree
10 upvotes
Jean P.
I've lived in Springfield for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Lots of new development happening
- The healthcare scene is decent
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
7 upvotes
Kinsley L.
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
6 upvotes
Willow Mitchell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Greenfield for 12 years. Moved from Portland for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Greenfield schools are excellent. 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 entertainment options. Far from beaches/mountains. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
Aria Y.
Used to live on the West side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
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