Anyone else feel this way? Been living here since 2012. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
2 upvotes
5 Replies
Jack G.
This.
35 upvotes
Katherine Rivera
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
31 upvotes
raised_mateo59
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 27, moved here 4 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Eastside and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The job market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for families. underrated 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 Phoenix, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
12 upvotes
Greyson Jackson
I've lived in Eastside for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Lots of new development happening
- The community vibe scene is average
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for singles. Good luck with whatever you decide..
10 upvotes
Piper T.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is school system. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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