Longtime lurker here, I'm retired and It's a a small town city with about 6,924 people. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
3 upvotes
4 Replies
Matthew Sanchez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 4 years. Moved from Phoenix for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. 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 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. government 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's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East 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. Winters are long and cold. Can feel isolated. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
miamiheart2020
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
30 upvotes
Oliver
following this thread
26 upvotes
Carson White
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The school system is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.