OK so Been living here since 2021. The unemployment rate is 4.5%, which is about average. You can expect to pay around $1,151 for rent here. Median household income is $65,179, which feels about average for the area. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Am I wrong here? The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
10 upvotes
7 Replies
Kennedy Watson
Bought a house here in 2023 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
30 upvotes
Ariana Robinson
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much stable but now it's average.
29 upvotes
Nathan Smith
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 15 years. Moved from Chicago for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2017 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have national forests 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 underrated. 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. Limited entertainment options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Aaron Watson
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's improving.
21 upvotes
Daniel C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Charlotte about 11 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Audrey
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Seattle it's solid.
17 upvotes
Grace Martinez
Bought a house here in 2019 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
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