Hey folks, The unemployment rate is 4.6%, which is about average. The median home value here is around $296,400, which seems about average. The city has invested a lot in new development. Does this match your experience? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
19 upvotes
14 Replies
Easton Gray
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 54, moved here 11 years ago from New York. I've lived in Fairview and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Property taxes are high
3. The cultural scene situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- East: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from New York, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
35 upvotes
Connor A.
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Highland area are challenging. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Nolan
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Nolan Peterson
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
28 upvotes
Maya
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
21 upvotes
Elijah Baker
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. walkability used to be much developing but now it's hit or miss.
21 upvotes
Sharon C.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 10 years. Moved from San Francisco for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. real estate 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:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is solid - we have desert landscapes 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 surprisingly good. 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 entertainment options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Nevaeh Thomas
honestly same experience here
17 upvotes
Zoe R.
haha yep pretty much
17 upvotes
Oliver G.
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Old Town area are decent. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Elizabeth O.
nah I disagree
10 upvotes
Everly Sanders
same here
1 upvotes
Sophia H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Dallas about 5 years ago. The main reasons were work and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Close to major attractions
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is average.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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