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What BestPlaces Users Say about Bloomington
Bloomington, Illinois is a mid-sized city located in central Illinois. It is known for its low cost of living, diverse population, and strong community. With a variety of job opportunities, including its thriving healthcare sector, Bloomington has become a popular destination for young professionals and families alike. However, like any other city, it has its fair share of pros and cons. In this context, let's take a look at what some real residents have to say about living in Bloomington.
According to a user named "Melissa" on BestPlaces.net, Bloomington is "a great place for families and young professionals." She mentions the city's safe neighborhoods, good schools, and affordable housing options. Another user, "Alex," shares a similar sentiment, saying that "Bloomington has a strong sense of community" and offers a "good balance of city amenities and small-town charm." These reviews highlight the family-friendly atmosphere and sense of community that Bloomington offers.
On the other hand, "John" expresses his frustration with the city's weather, saying that "summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be brutal with heavy snowfall." This is a common complaint among Bloomington residents, as the city experiences all four seasons quite distinctly. However, "Cindy" disagrees, stating that "the weather is not a deal-breaker for me" and that "the beautiful fall foliage makes up for the harsh winters." These differing opinions show that while some may find the weather challenging, others may not see it as a major issue.
In terms of job opportunities, "Mark" notes that "Bloomington has a good job market, especially in the healthcare industry." He also mentions that the city's cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Illinois. This is echoed by "Rachel," who points out that "housing is more affordable here than in the Chicago area." These reviews highlight some of the key factors that attract people to Bloomington, such as the strong job market and affordable living.
In summary, most residents seem to enjoy living in Bloomington, citing its family-friendly atmosphere, sense of community, and job opportunities as major positives. However, the city's weather can be a downside for some, but others may not find it to be a major issue. Overall, these user reviews provide valuable insights into the experience of living in Bloomington, Illinois.
based on 18 ReviewsGet to know Bloomington with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Bloomington
Ten + years, a review of TWO cities: Blo/No - 10/8/2016
If you're not from here it might be hard to figure out that Bloomington and Normal are actually one city mushed together, so make sure you look up info on Normal, IL too. Locals call it Blo/No and, often, it's hard to tell where they overlap unless you pay attention to street names, which switch from side to side in places.
Now, I'll begin by saying that I grew up not far from here in an affluent small town outside of Peoria, IL and lived in Chicago for almost 13 years. As small cities go, this is not such a terrible place, though it's not a terribly exciting place either. If you're 20-something looking for a wild nightlife and big clubs, this is not it, though I think most people could make a niche if they move here and make friends too. If you're single you might have to resort to online dating, but heck, even my friends in huge cities do that these days.
If you're nerdy and bookwormish, we do have a table top gaming shop, a legit record store, comic
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14 Years a Native - 1/24/2014
Bloomington-Normal as a city is full of resturants and movie theaters. The downtown bar scene is dominated by ISU, IWU, and HCC students. The colleges can have some fun plays and art exhibits but they hardly advertise off campus. If you want culture and alternative entertainment, you really have to look for it or go to Chicago (3 hours north) or Springfield (1 hour south). which isn;t hard to do with the train station in Normal next to campus. We do have a roller derby team that plays spring and summer. I've been several times and it's actually a very family friendly environment with people bringing everyone from infants to granparents. All procedes to to local charitys.
The people are pretty neutral; not outwardly hostile, but also not going out of their way to be chummy. It is primarily Republican and the first question out of peoples mouths when you meet is "What church do you go to?" You'll find pockets of Democrats if you're vocal enough, but it's kind of a "Don't
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!4 Years in Bloomington; A Natives Perspective - 1/24/2014
Bloomington-Normal as a city is full of resturants and movie theaters. The downtown bar scene is dominated by ISU, IWU, and HCC students. The colleges can have some fun plays and art exhibits but they hardly advertise off campus. If you want culture and alternative entertainment, you really have to look for it or go to Chicago (3 hours north) or Springfield (1 hour south). which isn;t hard to do with the train station in Normal next to campus. We do have a roller derby team that plays spring and summer. I've been several times and it's actually a very family friendly environment with people bringing everyone from infants to granparents. All procedes to to local charitys.
The people are pretty neutral; not outwardly hostile, but also not going out of their way to be chummy. It is primarily Republican and the first question out of peoples mouths when you meet is "What church do you go to?" You'll find pockets of Democrats if you're vocal enough, but it's kind of a "Don't
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14 years in Blo-No; A Townies Perspective - 1/24/2014
Bloomington-Normal as a city is full of resturants and movie theaters. The downtown bar scene is dominated by ISU, IWU, and HCC students. The colleges can have some fun plays and art exhibits but they hardly advertise off campus. If you want culture and alternative entertainment, you really have to look for it or go to Chicago (3 hours north) or Springfield (1 hour south). which isn;t hard to do with the train station in Normal next to campus. We do have a roller derby team that plays spring and summer. I've been several times and it's actually a very family friendly environment with people bringing everyone from infants to granparents. All procedes to to local charitys.
The people are pretty neutral; not outwardly hostile, but also not going out of their way to be chummy. It is primarily Republican and the first question out of peoples mouths when you meet is "What church do you go to?" You'll find pockets of Democrats if you're vocal enough, but it's kind of a "Don't
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Police! - 10/31/2012
Great place to live if your not young or a student, the police around the uptown normal area and ISU police are very strict and will not let anything slide. If you are driving past midnight or seen leaving a bar late in your own vehicle you will be fallowed until you make a mistake or they make one up for you. After being a local to this area for 22 years I am ready to experience something new. As the saying goes about Bloomington Normal, come on vacation...leave on probation.
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Bland but comfortable - 6/27/2011
Bloomington has a very bland suburban feel to it, although it is 2 hours from Chicago. Employment is fairly stable and the cost of living is low, but in terms of culture, it
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climate - 6/2/2010
Can enjoy all 4 seasons here. My favorites are spring and fall. Winter can be mild or not! Usually snow comes in small amounts with the occasional "big" storm. Summers are nice, except for the humid
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Hometown - 2/15/2010
Bloomington/Normal is a nice place to live and raise a family. There are two colleges here that provide lots to do. Summers are especially nice. The schools are varied and all have their good points. My only complaint is in winter it is quite cold for quite some time. Because of the flat landscape snow is not much fun. As I reach retirement age I am considering a more temperate climate. My wife and I are leaning towards
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