Hey, I'm a teacher here and Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Poverty rate is 1.8%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Coal Valley sits at 133.0 per 100K. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. Would love some local perspective. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
0 upvotes
13 Replies
Theodore Harris
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 10 years. Moved from Chicago for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - we have biking trails 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited shopping options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Hannah White
glad someone said it
34 upvotes
Everly Ramos
I've lived in Springfield for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Strong job market in several industries
- The job market scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for remote workers. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
26 upvotes
Jordan D.
same here
25 upvotes
Connor D.
thanks for sharing
25 upvotes
Levi N.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Seattle about 15 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is average.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
19 upvotes
Harper Anderson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
12 upvotes
lamama2021
haha yep pretty much
11 upvotes
Carson Miller
I'm a chef and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
7 upvotes
Allison Kelly
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The walkability is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
6 upvotes
Elizabeth Torres
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 7 years. Moved from San Francisco for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. government 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:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Westside 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 public transit options. Limited high-paying job options. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
Isla Hughes
Totally agree!
0 upvotes
Elizabeth Ramirez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 1 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in South. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in engineering. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Thai.
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