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Peyton H. living

What I wish I knew before living in Waukegan

Rent is about $1,163/month for a decent place. Median household income is $70,578, which feels about average for the area. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
19 upvotes

15 Replies

Joseph Evans
I've lived in Old Town for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
- The pet-friendliness scene is solid

The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Bugs and humidity in summer

Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Feel free to reach out with questions..
39 upvotes
Ella Castillo
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The dating scene is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
37 upvotes
Doris M.
interesting, hadn't considered that
35 upvotes
Isaiah Nguyen
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.

I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Denver about 14 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.

Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions

Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Road conditions need improvement

Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is pretty good.

Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Axel G.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
25 upvotes
Kai Clark
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
21 upvotes
Jackson J.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.

I've been here 4 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.

That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is average.

Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Meadowbrook side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.

Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
20 upvotes
Charlotte T.
glad someone said it
19 upvotes
Roy F.
thanks for sharing
10 upvotes
Hannah O.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.

I'm a nurse who relocated here from Minneapolis about 4 years ago. The main reasons were weather and cost of living.

Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals

Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Bugs and humidity in summer

Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is better than expected.

Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Happy to answer more specific questions..
8 upvotes
Emilia Ramos
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
7 upvotes
Jordan Nelson
I work in healthcare here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is underrated. Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Madelyn
great question, following
5 upvotes
John
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The cost of living is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
3 upvotes
Larry R.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
2 upvotes
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