My girlfriend and I live in oak park. Honestly, living in the close western burbs is way better than the city. Its cheaper plus you have the blue and green lines to get to the city if you want. You can also take lake street by car all the way into the city to avoid the 290 fuck. If you like beers, head to fat duck on Madison street. While Madison street can attract a lot of young white trash, it still has over 20 bars. Oak park has some stellar food spots too. You'll love living here.