I'm a 23-year-old contractor and Household incomes average around $106,312 in Shawnee. Median household income is $106,312, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Worth the trade-offs? The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
27 upvotes
22 Replies
Eliana T.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Dallas it's tough.
39 upvotes
Michael Ramirez
following this thread
38 upvotes
Genesis
I'm a sales manager and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is average and there's always something going on.
36 upvotes
Isaac M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
36 upvotes
Gabriel
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
32 upvotes
John Morris
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Baltimore about 11 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Close to major attractions
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Hope this helps!.
31 upvotes
Carter
This.
30 upvotes
Arianna Turner
I've lived in Sunset for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- The housing market scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
28 upvotes
Ian P.
Moved here from Minneapolis about 1 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to food scene but No regrets on my end..
28 upvotes
Luke Gonzalez
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
27 upvotes
Everly Brooks
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
25 upvotes
Zoey
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
Paisley Myers
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Anna Kim
honestly same experience here
15 upvotes
Andrew
honestly same experience here
15 upvotes
Jose Harris
Saving this thread
13 upvotes
Colton C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is challenging in most areas.
8 upvotes
Vivian Murphy
honestly same experience here
8 upvotes
portlandlocal2024
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
7 upvotes
Robert Clark
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 13 years. Moved from Denver for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is average - we have biking trails 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 pretty good. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Property taxes are high. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
3 upvotes
Amelia Hill
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
2 upvotes
Reagan C.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are tough, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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