Just moved here 16 months ago and Crime rate is something to consider -Norridge sits at 91.3 per 100K. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Let me know your thoughts. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
3 upvotes
11 Replies
Hannah Sanchez
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great craft beer places. it was the best decision I ever made.
37 upvotes
Ezra Mitchell
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to LA it's challenging.
31 upvotes
Gloria W.
nah I disagree
29 upvotes
sarah_rider
haha yep pretty much
26 upvotes
Christian White
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 43, moved here 1 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Downtown and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Property taxes are high
3. The school system situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. average vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
23 upvotes
Ella Phillips
I'm a accountant and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
21 upvotes
declan_mama
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
17 upvotes
Kathryn W.
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Highland area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Nova Phillips
spot on
16 upvotes
Owen
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Tampa about 3 years ago. The main reasons were work and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is solid.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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