I work in education and Poverty rate is 13.1%, which is around average. Crime rate is something to consider -Norwich sits at 382.4 per 100K. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What do you all think? The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
6 upvotes
9 Replies
Keith H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 3 years. Moved from Atlanta for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. hospitality 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are pretty 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Property taxes are high. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Leo Miller
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Boston about 6 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is average.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Declan Garcia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 4 years. Moved from Boston for my partner's job. 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 up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have biking trails 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Bugs and humidity in summer. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Jace Hughes
Bought a house here in 2020 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
23 upvotes
Serenity J.
Bought a house here in 2021 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
18 upvotes
Joan S.
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much reasonable but now it's underrated.
17 upvotes
Landon Gutierrez
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much manageable but now it's hit or miss.
5 upvotes
Aaliyah Roberts
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely average and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Midtown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
5 upvotes
Luna H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Dallas about 8 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is underrated.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. No regrets on my end..
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