Hi all, Poverty rate is 7.1%, which is pretty low. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What are your go-to spots? Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
12 upvotes
12 Replies
Michael K.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely underrated and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
40 upvotes
Alexa Cook
yep
40 upvotes
Miles O.
Bought a house here in 2018 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
29 upvotes
sarah_rider
I've lived in The Heights for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The housing market scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for remote workers. Feel free to reach out with questions..
27 upvotes
Ryan
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Hope this helps!.
21 upvotes
David Ortiz
good to know, thanks
20 upvotes
Riley
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
11 upvotes
Nolan S.
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
8 upvotes
Adam Morgan
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
6 upvotes
Cooper Thomas
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Good luck with whatever you decide..
6 upvotes
John Morris
100%
3 upvotes
Leo Ortiz
I've lived in Oak Park for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The pet-friendliness scene is average
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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