Curious what people think. Military spouse here. Average temperature is around 42--F, so bundle up in winter. Rent is about $1,017/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. What would you do?
18 upvotes
9 Replies
Xavier Parker
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
34 upvotes
Eli Jimenez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
34 upvotes
atlrider2020
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Korean places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
31 upvotes
Lucy Clark
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Denver about 10 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Lots of new development happening
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is average.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
24 upvotes
Wesley S.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 3 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
23 upvotes
Sebastian Moore
this is the way
22 upvotes
Ezekiel Morgan
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 5 years. Moved from Chicago for retirement. 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 up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. marketing 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 exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is improving - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town schools are pretty 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. Urban sprawl is real. Chain restaurants dominate. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Ruby Gray
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The weather is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
7 upvotes
Hudson Ross
I work in government here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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