So, It's a a smaller city city with about 55,007 people. The median home value here is around $289,000, which seems about average. Poverty rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Tinley Park sits at 39.2 per 100K. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Anyone in a similar situation? The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to.
8 upvotes
10 Replies
Ethan M.
I've lived in West for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The traffic scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Ruby R.
lol so true
27 upvotes
native_luna90
I've lived in Fairview for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
- The food scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
bostonlife2023
spot on
13 upvotes
Hudson Mendoza
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
13 upvotes
Jerry M.
literally same
12 upvotes
Robert L.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Fairview. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Mediterranean.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
10 upvotes
Maverick Bennett
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 9 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
5 upvotes
Dominic
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 8 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are excellent. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Homeless population growing downtown. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
All Countries
