So, I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Household incomes average around $98,617 in Matteson. Crime rate is something to consider -Matteson sits at 1,296.3 per 100K. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
1 upvotes
13 Replies
Weston Gomez
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The job market is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
37 upvotes
Asher Anderson
haha yep pretty much
33 upvotes
Carson Hernandez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 11 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
33 upvotes
Lily Gutierrez
Saving this thread
31 upvotes
Aurora Robinson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 1 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
24 upvotes
Ian K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 54, moved here 10 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Highland and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The walkability situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Miami, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
22 upvotes
Violet Kelly
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is cultural scene. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Daniel Evans
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor recreation is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
19 upvotes
Isabelle Morales
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 11 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
15 upvotes
Hunter Cruz
I work in marketing here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Good luck with whatever you decide..
13 upvotes
Willow Torres
couldn't agree more
7 upvotes
Michelle D.
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Mexican places. it was the best decision I ever made.
1 upvotes
Evelyn C.
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
All Countries
