Random thought, I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 71--F, so it's warm year-round. Median household income is $62,906, which feels about average for the area. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Am I wrong here? TIA!
0 upvotes
9 Replies
Eva Patel
Can confirm, been here 15 years.
37 upvotes
Leah Morris
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from LA about 14 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are manageable, gas is tough.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Definitely worth checking out..
37 upvotes
Audrey Baker
literally same
37 upvotes
Isabelle C.
I've lived in Springfield for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The public transit scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
33 upvotes
Kennedy W.
100%
21 upvotes
Jayden M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 26, moved here 13 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Can feel isolated
3. The housing market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Phoenix, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
20 upvotes
Ezekiel Parker
The food scene here is average. Tons of great Vietnamese places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
13 upvotes
Kevin M.
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Close to major attractions
- The community vibe scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Roger S.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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