Not sure if this has been asked before, but The unemployment rate is 4
19 upvotes
7 Replies
Leah
Totally agree!
38 upvotes
Sadie
noted, appreciate it
32 upvotes
Madeline
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 47, moved here 5 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Oak Park and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The school system situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Boston, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
21 upvotes
Caleb
As someone who grew up here, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much pricey but now it's improving.
20 upvotes
Hailey Taylor
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 15 years. Moved from San Diego for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Oak Park schools are improving. 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. Dating scene is rough. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Savannah King
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Emma Edwards
Moved here from Boston about 13 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to cost of living but Definitely worth checking out..