So, I'm a college student here and Crime rate is something to consider -Oatfield sits at 399.1 per 100K. Average temperature is around 55--F, so the weather is moderate. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Thoughts? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
5 upvotes
6 Replies
Elena Wilson
Totally agree!
30 upvotes
Aubrey Perez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 34, moved here 4 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Springfield and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The safety situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Chicago, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
21 upvotes
nycchef2022
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Maple Ridge side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
19 upvotes
Brenda H.
Bought a house here in 2019 and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Property values have gone about the same since then.
16 upvotes
Cooper Cruz
spot on
2 upvotes
Christian Hernandez
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Pine Hills area are decent. Kids love it here.
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