OK so I'm single, late 50s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Merion Station sits at 69.9 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $2,395 for rent here. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
0 upvotes
12 Replies
Roman F.
I work in tech here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is improving. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
36 upvotes
Daniel Jackson
I've lived in Springfield for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
- The job market scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Hope this helps!.
35 upvotes
Ethan Wilson
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much competitive but now it's better than expected.
30 upvotes
Robert O.
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
28 upvotes
noah_fan
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
26 upvotes
Sebastian Scott
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great Vietnamese places. the quality of life is solid.
22 upvotes
dallas_caroline
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely pretty good and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Fairview) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
18 upvotes
Nolan Mendoza
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 35, moved here 15 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Westside and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Nice parks and green spaces
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The walkability situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for couples. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Houston, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$140K 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.
13 upvotes
Emma Cruz
accurate
11 upvotes
Ezekiel Allen
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Definitely worth checking out..
5 upvotes
Paisley Howard
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if outdoor recreation matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
2 upvotes
Hazel Diaz
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much affordable but now it's challenging.
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