Just moved here 18 months ago and Poverty rate is 1.9%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What would you do? The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
14 upvotes
5 Replies
Riley Price
accurate
39 upvotes
nyc_gianna
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in South area are tough. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
Kennedy Long
Came here for family and stayed because I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
29 upvotes
Eli James
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 28, moved here 2 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Oak Park and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Affordable housing options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The weather situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for remote workers. tough vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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
sunny_lucas44
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
All Countries
