Hey, I'm originally from Nashville and It's a a smaller city city with about 51,683 people. Average temperature is around 55--F, so the weather is moderate. Household incomes average around $67,139 in West New York. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
Cons:
- Traffic can be terrible
- Limited dining options
- Homelessness issues downtown
Am I overthinking this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
6 upvotes
11 Replies
Riley Mitchell
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
40 upvotes
Elizabeth Cook
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
39 upvotes
Parker Watson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from San Francisco about 11 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is solid.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
austin_delilah
I'm a social worker and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
25 upvotes
Savannah Baker
Moved here from San Diego about 10 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to healthcare but No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Axel C.
facts
21 upvotes
Grace Long
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if traffic matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
16 upvotes
miami_cameron
I've lived in Sunset for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The weather scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
14 upvotes
Victoria
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Jack Parker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 12 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Far from beaches/mountains. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
philly_landon
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Seattle about 13 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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