Hey everyone, The median home value here is around $599,700, which is pretty steep. Rent is about $1,813/month for a decent place. The city has invested a lot in new development. What are your go-to spots? The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
5 upvotes
7 Replies
Delilah Reyes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 9 years. Moved from Phoenix for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2015 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:**
healthcare is strong here. finance 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are better than expected. 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. Limited public transit options. Limited entertainment options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Luca Richardson
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want job market, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
17 upvotes
jaxmind2021
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 14 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Everly Stewart
Moved here from Baltimore about 9 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to healthcare but No regrets on my end..
15 upvotes
Rylee Jackson
nah I disagree
14 upvotes
Emma Lee
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 Atlanta for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have national forests 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 improving. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Eva Watson
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community vibe is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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