Anyone else feel this way? I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. What are your go-to spots? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
13 upvotes
10 Replies
Leonardo
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 12 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into running, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
35 upvotes
Angel
Came here for cost of living and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The housing market is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
35 upvotes
Waylon Price
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Thai places. it's been a really good experience overall.
30 upvotes
Emilia J.
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
29 upvotes
Waylon Jackson
hard disagree but ok
29 upvotes
Jaxon T.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
27 upvotes
Zoe J.
I work in healthcare here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is better than expected. Good luck with whatever you decide..
19 upvotes
Willie M.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
10 upvotes
Hailey S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 53, moved here 14 years ago from New York. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The public transit situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 New York, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K 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.
2 upvotes
Jordan Y.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
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