So, I've been here for 4 years and Poverty rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. The city has invested a lot in new development. What are your go-to spots?
5 upvotes
12 Replies
Connor Rivera
wish I knew this sooner
38 upvotes
Jaxon Cox
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
31 upvotes
Parker Richardson
+1
27 upvotes
leah_life
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely improving and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
27 upvotes
Camila P.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
Ariana Ortiz
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if community vibe matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
24 upvotes
Sean H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 47, moved here 2 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Downtown and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Four distinct seasons
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited shopping options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Phoenix, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K 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.
21 upvotes
Ethan Brown
Bought a house here in 2020 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
17 upvotes
Brooks H.
spot on
12 upvotes
Logan C.
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 15 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to school system but Happy to answer more specific questions..
11 upvotes
Samuel Campbell
Can confirm, been here 6 years.
9 upvotes
Eliana Y.
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Oak Park area are challenging. Kids love it here.
All Countries
