Anyone else feel this way? Poverty rate is 13.5%, which is around average. Average temperature is around 61--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 3.8%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Worth the trade-offs? Any help is appreciated. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
11 upvotes
6 Replies
James Bennett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from LA about 11 years ago. The main reasons were family and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Lots of new development happening
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is decent.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
36 upvotes
Luke Alvarez
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 Phoenix for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is decent - 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. Springfield 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. Rising rent and home prices. Dating scene is rough. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Hazel Green
glad someone said it
33 upvotes
Hailey B.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 9 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to public transit but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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