I'm a nurse at the local hospital and The unemployment rate is 2.1%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -New Lenox sits at 107.0 per 100K. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. With a population of 27,456, New Lenox is a smaller city. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Am I overthinking this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
19 upvotes
15 Replies
Valentina Morris
I've lived in Oak Park for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- The healthcare scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Alexa Bennett
I've lived in West for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
- The walkability scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Happy to answer more specific questions..
34 upvotes
austindude2024
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely decent and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
32 upvotes
charlottechef2021
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
31 upvotes
Amelia S.
preach
26 upvotes
Ellie J.
great question, following
23 upvotes
Mason Smith
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Vietnamese places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
23 upvotes
Colton Scott
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 1 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Mia Clark
spot on
15 upvotes
Colton
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Thai places. it was the best decision I ever made.
15 upvotes
Rylee Williams
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 10 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to food scene but Happy to answer more specific questions..
15 upvotes
Emilia
couldn't agree more
11 upvotes
Brooklyn Peterson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 9 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
5 upvotes
Easton T.
I've lived in Riverside for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good healthcare facilities
- The walkability scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. No regrets on my end..
2 upvotes
Hailey Rogers
I work in consulting here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is decent. Definitely worth checking out..