So, Been living here since 2015. The unemployment rate is 3.9%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,812 for rent here. Rent is about $1,812/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 9.1%, which is pretty low. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Should I be concerned? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
38 upvotes
11 Replies
Caroline Anderson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 5 years. Moved from Seattle for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is improving - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown 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. Limited high-paying job options. Limited shopping options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Sarah
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much pricey but now it's decent.
30 upvotes
Mackenzie H.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cost of living is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
28 upvotes
Robert Y.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
26 upvotes
denver_skylar
thanks for sharing
22 upvotes
Liam Torres
couldn't agree more
20 upvotes
kc_roman
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
13 upvotes
Declan A.
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
10 upvotes
Isla Thomas
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
4 upvotes
Nova King
honestly same experience here
2 upvotes
Chloe Ramirez
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
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