Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm originally from Pittsburgh and You can expect to pay around $993 for rent here. Poverty rate is 8.3%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Staunton sits at 204.6 per 100K. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Appreciate any input. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
6 Replies
Logan
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 5 years. Moved from Phoenix for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have hiking 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Elijah H.
not my experience at all
30 upvotes
Joseph T.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely pretty good and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (The Heights) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
9 upvotes
milwaukeenative2023
I've lived in Maple Ridge for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- The dating scene scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Feel free to reach out with questions..
8 upvotes
Emilia Ortiz
exactly what I was thinking
6 upvotes
Josiah
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
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