OK so I'm a college student here and Median household income is $61,320, which feels about average for the area. Poverty rate is 5.8%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 1.3%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What do you all think? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
8 upvotes
10 Replies
Everly E.
exactly what I was thinking
35 upvotes
Adrian B.
I've lived in Springfield for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
- The housing market scene is solid
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Definitely worth checking out..
34 upvotes
Genesis Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 6 years. Moved from Raleigh for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. 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 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. Uptown schools are average. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Limited entertainment options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Lillian
This.
18 upvotes
Tyler W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Minneapolis about 13 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is average.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
14 upvotes
Natalie W.
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The weather is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
14 upvotes
Gabriella Thomas
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 1 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Fairview. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in retail. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Jayden Jackson
Can confirm, been here 7 years.
12 upvotes
Raymond C.
I work in healthcare here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is improving. Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
eva_heart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 57, moved here 14 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The school system situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Miami, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
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