Random thought, I'm a 38-year-old social worker and Average temperature is around 64--F, so the weather is moderate. You can expect to pay around $990 for rent here. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Thanks in advance! Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
26 upvotes
14 Replies
Caroline Parker
wish I knew this sooner
37 upvotes
Sadie Carter
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The weather is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
37 upvotes
Willow Collins
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
33 upvotes
Robert Young
Moved here from Tampa about 2 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to nightlife but Feel free to reach out with questions..
30 upvotes
Ryan
good to know, thanks
29 upvotes
Jordan L.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from LA about 4 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are growing, gas is improving.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Feel free to reach out with questions..
26 upvotes
Adeline S.
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
23 upvotes
James Gomez
interesting, hadn't considered that
20 upvotes
Levi
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in North area are improving. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Jacob Patel
preach
11 upvotes
Julian M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
10 upvotes
Kinsley Adams
I've lived in Eastside for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- The job market scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Definitely worth checking out..
9 upvotes
Naomi M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
6 upvotes
oakland_jose
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 40, moved here 6 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Sunset and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The food scene situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for families. improving vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 San Francisco, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
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