It's a a smaller city city with about 85,718 people. The unemployment rate is 2.6%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 11.2%, which is around average. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
2 upvotes
9 Replies
Vivian Murphy
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Riverside area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
Kathleen L.
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- The cultural scene scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Madelyn Morales
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 7 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
35 upvotes
Hannah F.
following this thread
31 upvotes
Isaiah Price
Bought a house here in 2024 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
18 upvotes
Harold K.
seconding this
16 upvotes
Sophie Ward
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 14 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
11 upvotes
charlottelover2020
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The weather is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
8 upvotes
Colton Gutierrez
I've lived in West for about 10 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 Austin, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- The weather scene is solid
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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