OK so The median home value here is around $401,800, which is pretty steep. Rent is about $1,397/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Worth the trade-offs? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to.
21 upvotes
10 Replies
Nolan Jackson
I work in tech here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is better than expected. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Skylar Rodriguez
Moved here from Denver about 4 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to nightlife but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Camila L.
Moved here from San Diego about 13 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to community vibe but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Bennett
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Greenfield side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
26 upvotes
Jaxon Peterson
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Indian places. the quality of life is solid.
23 upvotes
Camila M.
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Oak Park area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
20 upvotes
Jace A.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Mason
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in North. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in education. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
5 upvotes
Samuel Taylor
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Miami about 8 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
4 upvotes
Mia M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Phoenix about 3 years ago. The main reasons were weather and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is average.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Definitely worth checking out..
All Countries
