Hi all, Poverty rate is 2.3%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $105,405, which feels pretty solid for the area. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Let me know your thoughts. Thanks! Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
24 upvotes
6 Replies
Jack Thomas
Public transit is pretty good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
35 upvotes
Leonardo M.
honestly same experience here
20 upvotes
Sofia M.
great question, following
14 upvotes
Claire
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 14 years. Moved from San Francisco for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is decent - 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 hit or miss. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Urban sprawl is real. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
thomas_lover
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Cedar Grove. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in legal. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
11 upvotes
Paisley Hill
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Nashville it's tough.
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