Should I move to Palatine or stay in Indianapolis?
Just moved here 4 months ago and Median household income is $95,950, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's a a smaller city city with about 66,548 people. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Let me know your thoughts.
5 upvotes
13 Replies
Scarlett Phillips
not my experience at all
36 upvotes
Declan W.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
34 upvotes
Paisley Cooper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 13 years. Moved from Miami for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Ezra Adams
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want food scene, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
33 upvotes
Hailey Jones
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The cultural scene is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Autumn K.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
24 upvotes
Michael Roberts
Can confirm, been here 15 years.
22 upvotes
Naomi C.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
17 upvotes
Kennedy
hard disagree but ok
12 upvotes
Valentina Johnson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 36, moved here 4 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Sunset and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The pet-friendliness situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for singles. better than expected 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 Atlanta, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
12 upvotes
Jaxon J.
thanks for sharing
9 upvotes
Ariana K.
I've lived in Uptown for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- The nightlife scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
8 upvotes
Thomas Harris
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.