First post here. I'm originally from Pittsburgh and Median household income is $63,480, which feels about average for the area. The unemployment rate is 5.0%, which is about average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Thoughts?
23 upvotes
7 Replies
Bobby J.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 43, moved here 6 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Meadowbrook and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The safety situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
38 upvotes
Jace Stewart
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from LA about 12 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Close to major attractions
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are growing, gas is improving.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
lake_mason26
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 3 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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 surprisingly good. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Road conditions need improvement. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Naomi Jackson
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
21 upvotes
Cora Sanders
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
20 upvotes
Greyson Walker
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 5 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the East side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
19 upvotes
Jace Foster
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely excellent and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Riverside) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
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