Alright, Just moved here 8 months ago and The unemployment rate is 5.7%, which is about average. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. What would you do? The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
18 upvotes
12 Replies
Natalie
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely solid and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Sunset) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
39 upvotes
Leah
I work in marketing here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is better than expected. Definitely worth checking out..
35 upvotes
Natalie Hughes
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much established but now it's excellent.
32 upvotes
Luke Long
Public transit is solid here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
30 upvotes
Christian Brown
hard disagree but ok
20 upvotes
Catherine L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 1 years. Moved from Houston for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails 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 excellent. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Bugs and humidity in summer. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
hudson_soul
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
12 upvotes
Audrey H.
Used to live on the Downtown side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
6 upvotes
Dennis L.
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great Korean places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
6 upvotes
Roy F.
Saving this thread
3 upvotes
Elijah H.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is average in most areas.
1 upvotes
Riley B.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is improving in most areas.
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