OK so My partner and I are The unemployment rate is 4.3%, which is about average. Poverty rate is 19.0%, which is higher than I expected. Median household income is $44,675, which feels on the lower side for the area. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. What do you all think? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
8 upvotes
6 Replies
Nolan
honestly same experience here
38 upvotes
Grace Lee
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The walkability is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Allison Young
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
29 upvotes
Vincent S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 8 years. Moved from Dallas for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2024 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are improving. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Limited shopping options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Dominic Flores
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 5 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
19 upvotes
savannah_kid
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely decent and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
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