Hey everyone, I'm a remote worker and Poverty rate is 3.3%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $603,700, which is pretty steep. Homes are going for about $603,700 on average. Median household income is $120,279, which feels pretty solid for the area. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Let me know your thoughts. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
12 upvotes
9 Replies
Hailey T.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is challenging in most areas.
36 upvotes
Greyson Walker
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 7 years. Moved from Tampa for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is solid - we have hiking trails 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 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. Limited high-paying job options. Chain restaurants dominate. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Jeremiah Davis
facts
35 upvotes
Camila R.
yep
30 upvotes
mountain_alexander77
hmm interesting perspective
29 upvotes
Isabelle C.
I've lived in Old Town for about 7 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 Seattle, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The outdoor recreation scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
coastal_aiden68
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 40, moved here 7 years ago from LA. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The outdoor recreation situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 LA, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
25 upvotes
Willow
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 3 years. Moved from Chicago for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. real estate 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 was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Sunset schools are underrated. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Limited entertainment options. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Michael Alvarez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Sunset) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare 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.
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