Hey, I've been here for 1 years and Poverty rate is 3.5%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Parkland sits at 25.5 per 100K. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Worth the trade-offs? Any help is appreciated. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
24 upvotes
11 Replies
Thomas Gutierrez
hmm interesting perspective
37 upvotes
Greyson Rodriguez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 56, moved here 13 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Sunset and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Affordable housing options
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The safety situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Diego, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$120K 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.
32 upvotes
Victoria W.
This.
25 upvotes
Caroline Cook
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Oak Park. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in tech. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
24 upvotes
Mackenzie Edwards
I've lived in Oak Park for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
- The safety scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
24 upvotes
Hunter P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 26, moved here 7 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in North and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cost of living situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for families. pretty good 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
24 upvotes
phoenixmind2026
100%
23 upvotes
sunny_nicholas44
I'm a project manager and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
10 upvotes
Gabriella Brooks
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much affordable but now it's improving.
10 upvotes
Harper Gray
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Springfield area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
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