Hey, You can expect to pay around $701 for rent here. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
3 upvotes
15 Replies
Aaliyah H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Dallas about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is average.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
clara_papa
I'm a software engineer and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
38 upvotes
Mateo W.
hmm interesting perspective
37 upvotes
Ezekiel Hughes
nah I disagree
37 upvotes
Claire Murphy
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to San Francisco it's improving.
35 upvotes
Aiden Jimenez
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
31 upvotes
loving_mia60
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 7 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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 solid. 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 very walkable outside downtown. Limited entertainment options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Savannah Adams
haha yep pretty much
30 upvotes
raised_joshua60
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Meadowbrook. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in finance. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
30 upvotes
John Kelly
as a local I can confirm
28 upvotes
Bella Sanchez
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
19 upvotes
Samuel P.
accurate
18 upvotes
chill_gianna86
interesting, hadn't considered that
14 upvotes
tucson_scarlett
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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