Hey, I'm a college student here and Crime rate is something to consider -Alexandria sits at 72.2 per 100K. Poverty rate is 5.4%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Let me know your thoughts. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
11 upvotes
8 Replies
Leah Bennett
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
39 upvotes
Kennedy B.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely better than expected and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
34 upvotes
Leonardo G.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
29 upvotes
Brooklyn Jimenez
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much affordable but now it's challenging.
22 upvotes
Jaxon Wilson
I've lived in Springfield for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- The safety scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
22 upvotes
Audrey G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 12 years. Moved from Nashville for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are challenging. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Madelyn Robinson
interesting, hadn't considered that
8 upvotes
Logan H.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
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