Hi all, I've been here for 1 years and Poverty rate is 5.6%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $287,500 on average. The median home value here is around $287,500, which seems about average. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
45 upvotes
1 Replies
Grayson Cruz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 54, moved here 11 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Springfield and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Can feel isolated
3. The outdoor recreation situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for remote workers. average vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Boston, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
All Countries
