Been living here since 2005. You can expect to pay around $590 for rent here. What are your go-to spots? Thanks for reading.
2 upvotes
9 Replies
Caroline Murphy
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 Pittsburgh for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. engineering 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is solid - we have hiking trails 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 hit or miss. 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. Can feel isolated. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, 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.
35 upvotes
Kinsley M.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is public transit. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
30 upvotes
Delilah R.
Saving this thread
23 upvotes
Leonardo Wilson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 8 years. Moved from Seattle for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2023 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. retail 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 excellent - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook 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. Limited public transit options. Limited entertainment options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Luke Hernandez
glad someone said it
19 upvotes
Riley
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 44, moved here 1 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Maple Ridge and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The job market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for retirees. challenging 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 Denver, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
16 upvotes
Liam Chavez
noted, appreciate it
14 upvotes
Jonathan Johnson
as a local I can confirm
6 upvotes
Caroline Mitchell
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Asian places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
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