Been meaning to ask this. I'm single, late 20s, and Poverty rate is 7.1%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Am I wrong here? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
15 upvotes
3 Replies
Colton Diaz
I'm a pharmacist and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
Aubrey Mitchell
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 3 years. Moved from Baltimore for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is average - 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 better than expected. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Can feel isolated. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Theodore K.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 14 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Summers can be brutally hot
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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