Curious what people think. Household incomes average around $101,049 in Streamwood. Median household income is $101,049, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Streamwood sits at 151.8 per 100K. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Great weather
- Nice parks and trails
Cons:
- Limited public transit
- Cold winters
- Limited nightlife
- Boring for young people
- Poor road conditions
Anyone in a similar situation? Appreciate any input. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
18 upvotes
11 Replies
Levi Rivera
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Isabelle Lewis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 26, moved here 10 years ago from New York. I've lived in Pine Hills and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally improving - 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 housing market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 New York, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
29 upvotes
Alexa Murphy
Moved here from Atlanta about 4 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to food scene but No regrets on my end..
26 upvotes
Andrew E.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely improving and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Riverside) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
25 upvotes
Mateo C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 11 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
22 upvotes
Arianna Bennett
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely solid and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (West) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
21 upvotes
Audrey Cooper
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely excellent and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
20 upvotes
Cameron Gutierrez
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The pet-friendliness is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
18 upvotes
Susan S.
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
14 upvotes
Maria W.
Bought a house here in 2019 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
All Countries
