Been meaning to ask this. I'm originally from Boston and Median household income is $65,714, which feels about average for the area. Household incomes average around $65,714 in Stewartville. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What do you all think? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development.
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Josiah Perez
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. safety used to be much competitive but now it's decent.
39 upvotes
Hudson P.
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
34 upvotes
Kaylee F.
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
32 upvotes
Valentina Moore
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 15 years. Moved from Austin for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is decent - we have national forests 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 decent. 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. Dating scene is rough. Limited entertainment options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Paisley Miller
good to know, thanks
25 upvotes
Cooper M.
been saying this for years
20 upvotes
Nora Torres
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Kai S.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Lakewood. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in legal. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Mediterranean.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
7 upvotes
Linda B.
facts
5 upvotes
Abigail Lee
Totally agree!
4 upvotes
Xavier Davis
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
3 upvotes
Adam Martinez
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
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