Hey everyone, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 4.7%, which is pretty low. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. Cheers.
22 upvotes
5 Replies
Clara Brooks
I've lived in Oak Park for about 12 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 Portland, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- The school system scene is improving
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Caroline Lee
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Meadowbrook. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in marketing. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
10 upvotes
Willie B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 8 years. Moved from Nashville for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2019 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. legal 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is improving - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
8 upvotes
Madeline Myers
interesting, hadn't considered that
6 upvotes
Carter Wilson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 38, moved here 6 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Highland and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The public transit situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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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