Hello, I've been here for 3 years and Median household income is $77,979, which feels about average for the area. The unemployment rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 65--F, so the weather is moderate. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Any advice would be great. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
10 upvotes
7 Replies
fresnopapa2026
big facts right here
39 upvotes
orlandofan2023
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Pittsburgh it's challenging.
27 upvotes
Nova Gray
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 7 years. Moved from Charlotte for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Eastside schools are better than expected. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Savannah
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
22 upvotes
Adam G.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Oak Park. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in real estate. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
13 upvotes
sarah_life
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Eastside. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
13 upvotes
cool_addison53
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 13 years. Moved from Austin for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Limited shopping options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.