Random thought, Rent is about $1,342/month for a decent place. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
11 upvotes
4 Replies
Joshua Miller
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 37, moved here 5 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Downtown and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The job market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 San Francisco, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
31 upvotes
Alexa Walker
noted, appreciate it
21 upvotes
Grayson Taylor
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 33, moved here 12 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Oak Park and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited shopping options
3. The weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Baltimore, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
9 upvotes
Anna M.
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Eastside side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
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