The median home value here is around $172,500, which is actually reasonable. Median household income is $57,336, which feels about average for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
0 upvotes
13 Replies
Naomi Howard
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 15 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Reagan
Totally agree!
31 upvotes
Isla
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
28 upvotes
Lillian White
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Hannah A.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 7 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
Joshua Robinson
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Nevaeh
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 38, moved here 10 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Riverside and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Can feel isolated
3. The housing market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Nashville, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
11 upvotes
Sofia Bennett
honestly same experience here
9 upvotes
Caleb R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 45, moved here 4 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Oak Park and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Chicago, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
9 upvotes
Kayden Ross
100%
7 upvotes
Bella
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
7 upvotes
Roman C.
accurate
3 upvotes
Kennedy Ward
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great seafood places. I love the pace of life here.
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