Not sure if this has been asked before, but Average temperature is around 47--F, so expect cold winters. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
9 upvotes
15 Replies
Eli C.
thanks for sharing
36 upvotes
Andrew Brown
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
31 upvotes
Nova
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in North area are solid. Kids love it here.
29 upvotes
Madelyn Wood
couldn't agree more
24 upvotes
Everett Murphy
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is school system. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
21 upvotes
Willow Bailey
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
18 upvotes
Jayden
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Chicago about 8 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good airport with direct flights
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is decent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Austin M.
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much growing but now it's tough.
15 upvotes
Matthew Allen
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Riverside area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Amelia H.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Meadowbrook. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
7 upvotes
Jack Carter
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Chicago about 8 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is tough.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. No regrets on my end..
7 upvotes
Joseph Allen
underrated comment
6 upvotes
Santiago Myers
seconding this
4 upvotes
Margaret O.
same here
2 upvotes
Elizabeth T.
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- The housing market scene is average
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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