Been meaning to ask this. I'm a remote worker and Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What are your go-to spots? Looking forward to hearing from you all.
3 upvotes
12 Replies
Santiago Mitchell
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
37 upvotes
Kai
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. walkability used to be much competitive but now it's hit or miss.
36 upvotes
Kai Allen
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The cost of living is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
35 upvotes
Maverick H.
this is the way
35 upvotes
Brooklyn B.
been saying this for years
31 upvotes
Lucas Gonzalez
I've lived in Midtown for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure
- The community vibe scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. No regrets on my end..
30 upvotes
Madeline P.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 6 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into running, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
28 upvotes
Kyle P.
Totally agree!
24 upvotes
Benjamin M.
I work in finance here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is challenging. Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Arianna
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 39, moved here 11 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The public transit situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Houston, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K 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.
17 upvotes
Jonathan Lewis
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Oak Park area are tough. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Claire King
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in South area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
All Countries
