The median home value here is around $188,500, which is actually reasonable. The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $188,500 on average. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What would you do? The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development.
10 upvotes
10 Replies
Cora Hall
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely tough and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
34 upvotes
Cooper Green
I work in tech here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
David Williams
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much stable but now it's challenging.
29 upvotes
Kennedy Chavez
literally same
25 upvotes
Dylan Clark
I work in healthcare here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is tough. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
Edward M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into running, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
25 upvotes
bostonpapa2021
This.
22 upvotes
Jordan Baker
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is school system. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
13 upvotes
Ariana Foster
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
11 upvotes
Clara Cox
I'm a nurse and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.