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Elena Reyes
moving
Is Kenton worth moving to in 2026?
OK so We're a young couple and It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Let me know your thoughts.
0 upvotes
6 Replies
Samuel
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Downtown. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in retail. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Downtown. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in retail. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
30 upvotes
Aaliyah W.
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in North area are tough. Kids love it here.
28 upvotes
Andrew Brooks
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 5 years. Moved from Baltimore for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2024 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is solid - we have mountains 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 challenging. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Limited shopping options. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Springfield for 5 years. Moved from Baltimore for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2024 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is solid - we have mountains 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 challenging. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Limited shopping options. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Greyson G.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Atlanta about 7 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Atlanta about 7 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
18 upvotes
loving_emilia26
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Boston about 9 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Boston about 9 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
8 upvotes
Peyton Anderson
this is the way
3 upvotes