Hello, With a population of 16,334, Mattoon is a small town. You can expect to pay around $764 for rent here. Median household income is $47,308, which feels on the lower side for the area. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
0 upvotes
8 Replies
Theodore Davis
I'm a software engineer and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is average and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
Rylee C.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 8 years. Moved from Nashville for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
finance 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 been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Eastside 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. Property taxes are high. Chain restaurants dominate. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Elena Thompson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Midtown. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
30 upvotes
Quinn Diaz
I've lived in Greenfield for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The housing market scene is solid
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. No regrets on my end..
30 upvotes
Ella Ortiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 35, moved here 14 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Riverside and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The community vibe situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for remote workers. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Charlotte, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
11 upvotes
Skylar Rivera
as a local I can confirm
9 upvotes
Patrick C.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in South. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in construction. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
8 upvotes
Ava W.
I've lived in Oak Park for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The public transit scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Hope this helps!.
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