Been meaning to ask this. I'm a remote worker and Poverty rate is 10.9%, which is around average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Is this normal for Waukegan? Looking forward to hearing from you all. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
30 upvotes
8 Replies
Sophia White
I work in hospitality here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is challenging. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
37 upvotes
Elena Mitchell
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 31, moved here 8 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Lakewood and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The housing market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Houston, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
36 upvotes
Roman Ward
thanks for sharing
36 upvotes
Zoey Rivera
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 2 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
35 upvotes
Cooper Davis
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Fairview) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
22 upvotes
Hudson Edwards
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
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