So, I'm a remote worker and Homes are going for about $454,600 on average. Median household income is $83,857, which feels pretty solid for the area. You can expect to pay around $1,597 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 3.5%, which is pretty low. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Thanks in advance! The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
10 upvotes
6 Replies
Delilah R.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
29 upvotes
Sarah C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 10 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
24 upvotes
Peyton Ortiz
Bought a house here in 2021 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone about the same since then.
13 upvotes
Luke Flores
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Korean places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
11 upvotes
Ellie
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
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