Not sure if this has been asked before, but My partner and I are The median home value here is around $211,100, which is actually reasonable. Average temperature is around 68--F, so the weather is moderate. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development.
11 upvotes
8 Replies
Joshua Gray
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 14 years. Moved from Raleigh for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are tough. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Gabriella Diaz
I've lived in Oak Park for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- The walkability scene is improving
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
19 upvotes
Brooks
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Sunset. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in engineering. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Southern.
No regrets on my end..
14 upvotes
Madison P.
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Midtown area are improving. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Xavier S.
Bought a house here in 2023 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
5 upvotes
Jose
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to LA it's underrated.
3 upvotes
Jonathan Miller
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
3 upvotes
Theodore
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is solid in most areas.
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