First post here. The median home value here is around $215,400, which is actually reasonable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
22 upvotes
9 Replies
Leonardo Cruz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 10 years. Moved from Denver for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. finance 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 not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have ski resorts 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 challenging. 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. Property taxes are high. Can feel isolated. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Lydia Ward
This.
27 upvotes
Lily Rogers
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 9 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
Ian Ward
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely excellent and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Bugs and humidity in summer.
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.
24 upvotes
Julian Evans
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is improving in most areas.
23 upvotes
Aurora W.
noted, appreciate it
21 upvotes
Eva Ross
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Fairview. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
Roman Howard
following this thread
7 upvotes
charlotte_jeremiah
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Houston about 5 years ago. The main reasons were weather and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Close to major attractions
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited public transit options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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