Hey folks, My family moved here when I was a kid. Average temperature is around 73--F, so it's warm year-round. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
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Zoey T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 49, moved here 2 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in North and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The pet-friendliness situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for remote workers. tough vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 San Francisco, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
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