Hi all, I'm a college student here and Homes are going for about $211,700 on average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Anyone in a similar situation?
2 upvotes
7 Replies
Adeline S.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is improving in most areas.
27 upvotes
Hudson N.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 27, moved here 3 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in North and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The outdoor recreation situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for remote workers. improving vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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
Rylee
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is decent in most areas.
19 upvotes
Ian Parker
Used to live on the Downtown side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
18 upvotes
Caleb R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 12 years. Moved from Miami for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are surprisingly good. 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. Property taxes are high. Chain restaurants dominate. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Kaylee Sanders
nah I disagree
11 upvotes
Colton Hill
Public transit is pretty good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
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