Alright, I'm originally from Chicago and Average temperature is around 58--F, so the weather is moderate. Rent is about $1,048/month for a decent place. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. What would you do? Thanks for reading.
10 upvotes
7 Replies
lake_miles39
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Springfield. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
35 upvotes
Valentina Cooper
this is the way
30 upvotes
Diane C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 3 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Joyce J.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want school system, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
24 upvotes
Eliana Turner
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if food scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
6 upvotes
Rylee Campbell
Came here for family and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The weather is honestly tough and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
5 upvotes
Johnny R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 24, moved here 5 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Oak Park and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The public transit situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- South: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Pittsburgh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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