Hello, Median household income is $83,571, which feels pretty solid for the area. Average temperature is around 69--F, so the weather is moderate. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
5 upvotes
14 Replies
Elizabeth Gutierrez
Moved here from Portland about 2 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to housing market but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
Evan Peterson
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
37 upvotes
Olivia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 9 years. Moved from LA for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. East schools are surprisingly good. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Can feel isolated. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Emily S.
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Korean places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
30 upvotes
Nicholas Bennett
spot on
29 upvotes
atl_asher
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 6 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Emmett C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 7 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
19 upvotes
Harper Walker
I work in healthcare here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is pretty good. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Camila Mendoza
Totally agree!
12 upvotes
Gabriel
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
10 upvotes
Harold R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 34, moved here 5 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Cedar Grove and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited public transit options
3. The community vibe situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for families. decent vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 San Diego, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
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