Curious what people think. With a population of 30,559, Franklin Square is a smaller city. Poverty rate is 4.6%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $2,052/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Franklin Square sits at 119.0 per 100K. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Am I overthinking this? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
4 upvotes
15 Replies
Greyson Reed
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 5 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into running, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
40 upvotes
Nolan
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much competitive but now it's underrated.
37 upvotes
Hailey
This.
36 upvotes
Allison Ross
lol so true
36 upvotes
Adeline M.
Totally agree!
34 upvotes
Austin
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
cooper_mama
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
27 upvotes
Victoria Reed
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Italian places. it's been a really good experience overall.
27 upvotes
Connor R.
great question, following
27 upvotes
Jackson Phillips
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 14 years. Moved from Atlanta for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. 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 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited entertainment options. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Paisley G.
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great seafood places. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
14 upvotes
Aria Cruz
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
13 upvotes
Ava G.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 4 years ago. The main reasons were school and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is decent.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Hope this helps!.
12 upvotes
Jacob
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Atlanta about 5 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
9 upvotes
Jayden Gutierrez
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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