Been meaning to ask this. It's a a small town city with about 11,128 people. Median household income is $250,001, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. Appreciate any input. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
9 upvotes
7 Replies
Amelia
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
38 upvotes
Jackson H.
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Oak Park area are underrated. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Connor Phillips
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 13 years. Moved from Phoenix for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. manufacturing 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:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West 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. Property taxes are high. Limited entertainment options. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Samuel Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 54, moved here 8 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Cedar Grove and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The outdoor recreation situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for singles. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Atlanta, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
27 upvotes
Lauren A.
underrated comment
18 upvotes
Ethan B.
glad someone said it
14 upvotes
Brooklyn Peterson
I work in tech here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is pretty good. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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