Anyone else feel this way? I'm originally from Chicago and Homes are going for about $474,500 on average. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
15 upvotes
15 Replies
Nicole C.
I've lived in Greenfield for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good internet infrastructure
- The nightlife scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Jackson A.
honestly same experience here
37 upvotes
Lillian Walker
hmm interesting perspective
37 upvotes
Aaliyah Gray
Moved here last year, no regrets.
34 upvotes
Brooklyn H.
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in East area are improving. Kids love it here.
32 upvotes
Nancy C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 5 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Meadowbrook side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
30 upvotes
Ruby Harris
I work in legal here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is tough. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
22 upvotes
Leo Richardson
Bought a house here in 2015 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
17 upvotes
Sadie Turner
nah I disagree
16 upvotes
jaxlife2021
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 40, moved here 4 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Sunset and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The housing market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Atlanta, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
15 upvotes
Everett Jimenez
I've lived in East for about 1 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 Salt Lake City, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
- The nightlife scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
Eleanor Foster
Came here for school and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The food scene is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
14 upvotes
Everly Alvarez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 7 years. Moved from Boston for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
retail is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. Cedar Grove schools are underrated. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Kevin J.
Bought a house here in 2017 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone about the same since then.
9 upvotes
Bryan C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are affordable, gas is average.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Hope this helps!.
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