Anyone else feel this way? Rent is about $1,414/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 7.3%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $78,621, which feels about average for the area. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Thoughts? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development.
10 upvotes
6 Replies
Jack D.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in North. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
32 upvotes
philly_eliana
Saving this thread
30 upvotes
Amelia Garcia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 55, moved here 9 years ago from LA. I've lived in Uptown and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The dating scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. decent vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 LA, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K 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.
24 upvotes
Elena Parker
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
13 upvotes
Philip M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Meadowbrook. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
No regrets on my end..
8 upvotes
audrey_heart
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 14 years. Moved from Houston for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. consulting 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 love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have lakes 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 surprisingly 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. Limited high-paying job options. Can feel isolated. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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