Median household income is $119,212, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Appreciate any input. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
2 upvotes
12 Replies
Rylee Castillo
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 10 years. Moved from Houston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. healthcare 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:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Can feel isolated. Limited entertainment options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
raleigh_jeremiah
as a local I can confirm
34 upvotes
Hailey Gutierrez
Moved here from San Diego about 8 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to weather but Happy to answer more specific questions..
30 upvotes
Vivian Murphy
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 8 years. Moved from Portland for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2024 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is average - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are decent. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Harper Long
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely solid and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (North) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
28 upvotes
Delilah R.
+1
23 upvotes
Audrey Stewart
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
happy_everly70
Totally agree!
21 upvotes
Brielle Sanchez
I work in consulting here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is solid. Hope this helps!.
14 upvotes
Wesley P.
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
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