Hey, Average temperature is around 58--F, so the weather is moderate. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Is this normal for University City? The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
20 upvotes
13 Replies
Bobby J.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely decent and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Riverside) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
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.
40 upvotes
Amanda L.
glad someone said it
37 upvotes
dc_mateo
Bought a house here in 2020 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone about the same since then.
34 upvotes
Autumn Parker
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
28 upvotes
Ava C.
been saying this for years
23 upvotes
Skylar Long
glad someone said it
18 upvotes
Nevaeh Smith
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
16 upvotes
Elizabeth H.
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 6 years. Moved from Houston for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. real estate 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:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Oak Park schools are challenging. 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. Bugs and humidity in summer. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, 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.
16 upvotes
tucson_gabriel
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
15 upvotes
Matthew Diaz
this is the way
5 upvotes
Clara C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 14 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
5 upvotes
Aria James
Moved here from Raleigh about 1 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to school system but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
4 upvotes
Nolan Alvarez
I'm a nurse and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
All Countries
