Random thought, I'm single, late 30s, and The median home value here is around $429,400, which is pretty steep. Homes are going for about $429,400 on average. You can expect to pay around $1,743 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 2.1%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Should I be concerned? Thanks in advance! I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
43 upvotes
9 Replies
Paisley
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 47, moved here 6 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Oak Park and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
37 upvotes
Clara Long
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 14 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to food scene but Hope this helps!.
30 upvotes
Leah W.
good to know, thanks
29 upvotes
Cooper
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 12 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
25 upvotes
Luca
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 4 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
22 upvotes
Anna
facts
18 upvotes
Autumn Martin
glad someone said it
11 upvotes
Roman W.
I work in healthcare here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is underrated. Feel free to reach out with questions..
11 upvotes
Natalie W.
As someone who grew up here, I love the pace of life here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. food scene used to be much manageable but now it's surprisingly good.
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