Hello, The unemployment rate is 1.3%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 14.3%, which is around average. Homes are going for about $152,900 on average. The median home value here is around $152,900, which is actually reasonable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. Thoughts? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
7 upvotes
6 Replies
Elizabeth
Came here for family and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The nightlife is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
37 upvotes
sacramento_carter
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 4 years. Moved from Portland for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are surprisingly good. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Bugs and humidity in summer. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Delilah R.
literally same
32 upvotes
Mason P.
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. safety used to be much competitive but now it's average.
13 upvotes
wild_vivian38
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely hit or miss and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
13 upvotes
Olivia
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from New York about 11 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is solid.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
All Countries
