Hi all, Household incomes average around $87,039 in Lake Mills. You can expect to pay around $1,095 for rent here. Rent is about $1,095/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Lake Mills sits at 168.1 per 100K. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
8 upvotes
14 Replies
urban_avery84
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
39 upvotes
ellie_girl
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
37 upvotes
Madelyn Foster
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The community vibe is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
34 upvotes
Luna Garcia
same here
32 upvotes
Oliver James
Totally agree!
32 upvotes
Lydia Gutierrez
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 Chicago for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. government 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:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is average - 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 excellent. 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. Nightlife is limited. Not very walkable outside downtown. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Caleb Scott
nah I disagree
31 upvotes
Kayden W.
interesting, hadn't considered that
29 upvotes
Jacqueline R.
Used to live on the North side, now on the Pine Hills side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
25 upvotes
Xavier
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
14 upvotes
Connor H.
exactly what I was thinking
7 upvotes
Emma Murphy
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if outdoor recreation matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
5 upvotes
Zoey S.
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
2 upvotes
Lucy
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely challenging and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Fairview) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
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