Hey folks, I work in tech and Median household income is $204,750, which feels pretty solid for the area. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What are your go-to spots? The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
11 upvotes
9 Replies
Gabriel Taylor
I've been living here for 1 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The public transit is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
39 upvotes
Aaliyah Reyes
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in South area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
Addison Jimenez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is tough in most areas.
21 upvotes
dcwalker2021
hard disagree but ok
17 upvotes
Chloe Mitchell
I've lived in East for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong job market in several industries
- The housing market scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Valentina Hall
Moved here from Chicago about 11 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to safety but Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
mountain_hunter72
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 55, moved here 10 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Springfield and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The job market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for remote workers. solid vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Chicago, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $70K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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
Andrew J.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is school system. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
4 upvotes
Julia Stewart
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Seattle it's pretty good.
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