Been meaning to ask this. We have two kids and With a population of 7,011, Sandston is a small town. Homes are going for about $201,800 on average. It's a a small town city with about 7,011 people. Median household income is $57,708, which feels about average for the area. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Let me know your thoughts. Thanks in advance! There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
12 upvotes
10 Replies
Aaron Evans
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Houston about 7 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong job market in several industries
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Sophie G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 12 years. Moved from Seattle for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is decent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are better than expected. 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 public transit options. Limited high-paying job options. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Henry Richardson
100%
33 upvotes
Nora Peterson
as a local I can confirm
32 upvotes
native_zoey6
Bought a house here in 2021 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
31 upvotes
Isaiah
Totally agree!
19 upvotes
Alexa Martinez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 51, moved here 4 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Lakewood and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The traffic situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Austin, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
13 upvotes
Joshua Ward
couldn't agree more
13 upvotes
Luna Kelly
I've lived in Downtown for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Active local events and festivals
- The healthcare scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Hope this helps!.
7 upvotes
Zoe Mendoza
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from LA about 15 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is improving.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. No regrets on my end..
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