I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. It's a a small town city with about 21,314 people. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Any advice would be great. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
0 upvotes
14 Replies
Melanie Jackson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 14 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
33 upvotes
Liam Wright
I work in healthcare here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is tough. Good luck with whatever you decide..
29 upvotes
Camila T.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Barbara P.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
27 upvotes
reagan_vibes
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
26 upvotes
Madeline Campbell
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
26 upvotes
bella_heart
it depends on the neighborhood
22 upvotes
Declan Nelson
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
21 upvotes
Sophie Richardson
haha yep pretty much
20 upvotes
Nicole R.
yep
19 upvotes
Aiden Peterson
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
19 upvotes
Zoe Y.
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
18 upvotes
Chloe
Came here for retirement and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The housing market is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
17 upvotes
Marie T.
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The nightlife is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
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