Rent is about $1,162/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 65--F, so the weather is moderate. Homes are going for about $201,200 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Any advice would be great. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
2 upvotes
7 Replies
Andrew Lee
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Oak Park. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in government. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Hope this helps!.
39 upvotes
Nevaeh
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Highland. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in legal. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
32 upvotes
Jacob Hernandez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 14 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
legal is strong here. construction 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's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are excellent. 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. Nightlife is limited. Homeless population growing downtown. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Logan T.
lol so true
12 upvotes
mountain_nicholas40
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Eleanor Taylor
hard disagree but ok
6 upvotes
Amelia James
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Close to major attractions
- The cultural scene scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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