Oak Park

The Lowdown: Oak Park

So city living ain´t for you but you´ll be damned if you move to some cookie-cutter development out in the boonies with no public transportation or sidewalks. Have no fear, Oak Park is here!

Oak Park is the first suburb west of Chicago off of I-290, making it just nine miles from the Loop.  It´s fifteen to twenty minutes from the city by highway, “L” or the Metra, making it a commuters´ paradise both for people working in the city or western burbs like Oak Brook and Naperville. 

 Oak Park´s claim to fame is that it´s the former home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright and well as author Earnest Hemmingway (must be something in the water).   The tree-lined streets are dotted with cozy bungalows and historic mansions depending on which side of town you´re on (west of Oak Park Avenue for mansions, east of Ridgeland Avenue for bungalows).   While the architecture of the housing stock is phenomenal, many of the homes have not been renovated since the 70´s, so be ready to unleash your inner Bob Villa.

  Although a little late to the party, downtown Oak Park has experienced an increase in condos and townhouses, which have started to attract more young professionals and empty nesters.   Downtown Oak Park has small-town charm, although many of the older storefronts are well past their prime.   Luckily, they´re slowly being replaced with new boutiques.   Restaurants are also plentiful, but a little boring if you´re culinary desires go beyond Italian, Asian noodles and pizza. 



Diversity is good: Oak Park Demographics

Oak Park is solidly liberal and one of the most diverse communities in the country.  It´s not uncommon to see white families with bi-racial or black children.   Gay and lesbian couples are also welcome.   

If you have kids, you´ll be happy to know that Oak Park also has pretty good public schools.   Of course, your property taxes are going to reflect the fact that Oak Park youth can read, write, and do arithmetic.   Because the elementary schools are in the middle of the residential neighborhoods, parents often walk their kids to school in the morning. 

  Unlike many suburbs, Oak Park has retained its focus on arts and culture.   The Harrison Street Art District has several cool art galleries and studios. During the summer and fall, there´s also a farmer´s market that serves up of the best homemade donuts around (the fruits and veggies are good too).



A Tasty Suburban and City Sandwich

While more expensive than many suburbs further west, relative to living in Chicago, Oak Park is a steal.   New construction homes are rare (and expensive) due to tight zoning restrictions.   But small bungalow can be had for prices similar to large condos downtown.   There are also plenty of townhouses near downtown Oak Park for those who want to be in the thick of things.

  Police presence is very noticeable in Oak Park with officers regularly patrolling the street.   This is a constant reminder that the village is only a flew blocks from the rough and tumble West Side of Chicago.   Major crime isn´t much of an issue, but don´t be surprised if a city-dwelling crackhead jacks your lawnmower from your backyard.