Hello, Has anyone dealt with this? I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
48 upvotes
3 Replies
Julia Stewart
Moved here from San Diego about 9 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to food scene but Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Gabriella P.
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 12 years. Moved from Raleigh for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. healthcare 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 wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have desert landscapes 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 average. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Urban sprawl is real. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.