Not sure if this has been asked before, but It's a a smaller city city with about 54,496 people. Median household income is $90,791, which feels pretty solid for the area. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Has anyone dealt with this? Cheers.
30 upvotes
12 Replies
Zoey
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
40 upvotes
Everly A.
noted, appreciate it
40 upvotes
Isaac Phillips
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
36 upvotes
Ashley A.
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
portlanddude2023
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's hit or miss.
28 upvotes
Carson Bennett
following this thread
27 upvotes
Jordan Gray
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 8 years. Moved from Baltimore for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have lakes 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 underrated. 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. Property taxes are high. Road conditions need improvement. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Mason T.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
19 upvotes
Allison Scott
it depends on the neighborhood
17 upvotes
Cooper Price
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
10 upvotes
Skylar Scott
nah I disagree
9 upvotes
Jeremiah Brown
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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