Hey folks, I'm a remote worker and Average temperature is around 59--F, so the weather is moderate. Median household income is $193,633, which feels pretty solid for the area. Rent is about $3,501/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up.
29 upvotes
15 Replies
Adam N.
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Oak Park area are underrated. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
Daniel Jackson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 11 years. Moved from San Francisco for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Springfield schools are underrated. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited high-paying job options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
chill_kaylee49
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to New York it's improving.
33 upvotes
Piper T.
hard disagree but ok
31 upvotes
Lucy M.
thanks for sharing
31 upvotes
Matthew Ruiz
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely excellent and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Eastside) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
29 upvotes
Hudson Perez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely tough and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation 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.
26 upvotes
Elizabeth K.
Saving this thread
11 upvotes
river_sarah72
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The housing market is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
10 upvotes
madeline_native
As someone who grew up here, I love the pace of life here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. dating scene used to be much reasonable but now it's tough.
10 upvotes
Delilah Price
preach
9 upvotes
Savannah King
I've lived in Old Town for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of new development happening
- The weather scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Summers can be brutally hot
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
8 upvotes
Owen Davis
Can confirm, been here 2 years.
7 upvotes
Melanie M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely better than expected and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Midtown) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
5 upvotes
Betty A.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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