Recent years have seen a lot of people moving to Oak Park. And it’s not only Chicagoans making the move—this Near West suburb has garnered attention from people from all over the United States.
You read that correctly: Redfin data shows that residents from the East Coast, West Coast, and Southern U.S. have found their new homes here. It might be suburban, but it boasts an urban vibe, unique attractions, and great transportation options. Here are some tips and tricks for a smooth and seamless relocation if you’re moving to Oak Park.
Why People Are Moving to Oak Park
The suburb’s proximity to Chicago is one of the reasons why so many people are moving to Oak Park. It’s right next to the city’s Austin neighborhood. In fact, Austin Boulevard is its east boundary. Oak Park spans as far west as Harlem Avenue, and its limits run from North Avenue to its southern border of Roosevelt Road.
There’s also plenty to do. For people who want to bring some culture and education into their lives, there’s the Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio that offers guided tours. On top of that, literature enthusiasts can check out Ernest Hemingway’s Birthplace Museum.
It’s also very easy to enjoy daily life after moving to Oak Park thanks to the great dining and nightlife options. A healthy mix of single-family homes and larger apartment and condo buildings makes it an ideal place to live for a wide range of people, and when it’s time to head into Chicago, there are plenty of transportation options including CTA buses, Blue and Green Line trains, and Metra rail.
Tips for Moving to Oak Park
Moving to Oak Park starts out like a lot of other local moves throughout Chicagoland: grab a handy moving checklist to help you outline your timeline and create your to-do list. Then, consider what unique challenges you’ll need to identify and overcome. Here are a few things to keep in mind about moving to Oak Park:
- Parking restrictions. Oak Park has different parking regulations and permits than the City of Chicago and the surrounding areas. You’ll likely need to get a permit for the moving truck, and you might need to purchase a special parking pass for your personal vehicle.
- Old homes. Many of the single-family homes in this suburb were built in the 1930s and 1940s. This means there’s a good chance you’ll have some gorgeous built-ins and wood trim, but it also means you’ll have to deal with tight staircases and narrow doorways. If you have oversized furniture or other items, measure them to make sure they’ll fit into your new place.
- Original finishings. If you’re moving into one of those older Oak Park homes, let your movers know about any hardwood floors or other permanent fixtures that are original to the home. They’ll bring special coverings to protect the delicate property and your belongings.
- Pack efficiently. Regardless of whether you’re hiring professional movers or planning a DIY move, you’ll want to prepare for as few trips as possible through those narrow walkways and past the nearly century-old fixtures. Instead of using dozens of cardboard boxes of varying size, pack more efficiently using stackable (and rentable) plastic moving bins.
Here’s one more tip for anyone moving to Oak Park: it might feel like Chicago, but Oak Park is its own township. That means it has its own parking regulations, car registration laws, and tax structure. You’ll need to do some research and prep when you move, and you might want to start with the official Oak Park, IL website.
Moving to Oak Park? Let Our Professional Packers and Movers Make Your Relocation a Breeze!
We love moving to Oak Park. In fact, several of our very own team members live there! We know the challenges this area poses and how to avoid them. Let our professional packers and marvelous movers help you settle into your new suburban home.
Request your custom estimate today, or give us a shout with any questions about our services!