Not sure if this has been asked before, but Homes are going for about $631,400 on average. The unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $96,626, which feels pretty solid for the area. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. The median home value here is around $631,400, which is pretty steep. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
53 upvotes
12 Replies
Eliana Perez
good to know, thanks
34 upvotes
Madeline Walker
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 Houston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. education 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is average - 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. Springfield schools are decent. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Property taxes are high. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Carson Castillo
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
31 upvotes
Diane T.
Can confirm, been here 8 years.
30 upvotes
Jackson Wright
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from LA about 11 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Anna T.
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
20 upvotes
Santiago
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if community vibe matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
19 upvotes
Reagan Wilson
lol so true
17 upvotes
Gabriel Hughes
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
16 upvotes
Michael Reyes
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Lakewood area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
11 upvotes
Isaiah Parker
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.