Random thought, I'm a teacher here and The median home value here is around $212,800, which is actually reasonable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Anyone in a similar situation? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
6 upvotes
12 Replies
charlottewalker2021
I've lived in Eastside for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- The dating scene scene is tough
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Landon Ramirez
as a local I can confirm
30 upvotes
Violet
literally same
25 upvotes
Savannah Allen
I've lived in Oak Park for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
- The housing market scene is solid
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
24 upvotes
Frank M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 53, moved here 5 years ago from Austin. I've lived in East and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Limited shopping options
3. The outdoor recreation situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
22 upvotes
Robert Miller
lol so true
21 upvotes
david_girl
thanks for sharing
15 upvotes
Roy R.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The nightlife is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Brielle M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Denver about 3 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Lots of new development happening
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
6 upvotes
Miles B.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
4 upvotes
Eli Baker
This.
3 upvotes
Jacob Patel
I'm a HR manager and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
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