Random thought, I'm single, late 30s, and Average temperature is around 47--F, so expect cold winters. The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $2,932 for rent here. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to.
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houston_zoey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 4 years. Moved from Tampa for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is decent - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are solid. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Homeless population growing downtown. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Alice Reed
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
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