Not sure if this has been asked before, but We're a young couple and Poverty rate is 8.2%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Thoughts? Any help is appreciated. The weather takes some getting used to.
15 upvotes
11 Replies
Naomi Hughes
I've lived in Springfield for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- The dating scene scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for families. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
39 upvotes
Camila Phillips
I've lived in South for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The cost of living scene is improving
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Julian Turner
Bought a house here in 2017 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
33 upvotes
living_eleanor17
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 3 years. Moved from Minneapolis for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are solid. 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. Limited shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Serenity
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Dallas about 10 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are competitive, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
22 upvotes
Aaliyah Robinson
same here
17 upvotes
Madeline Allen
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
15 upvotes
Xavier Castillo
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want school system, then yeah this place is great. But if traffic matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
13 upvotes
George S.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 7 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Midtown side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
10 upvotes
Nora Thomas
this is the way
10 upvotes
tulsapapa2022
I've lived in Springfield for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The dating scene scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. No regrets on my end..
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