Hi all, I'm single, late 40s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Round Lake sits at 87.6 per 100K. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Anyone in a similar situation?
9 upvotes
6 Replies
Aubrey D.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 51, moved here 14 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in East and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The food scene situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for families. solid vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Tampa, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
30 upvotes
Josiah K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 30, moved here 11 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Downtown and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The traffic situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Chicago, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
29 upvotes
Genesis Brooks
I've been living here for 1 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The food scene is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Robert W.
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Pine Hills area are tough. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Theodore Morales
Bought a house here in 2020 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
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