Not sure if this has been asked before, but The median home value here is around $1,246,200, which is pretty steep. Household incomes average around $109,317 in San Rafael. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What are your go-to spots?
10 upvotes
14 Replies
Nolan Chavez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 11 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Piper Lewis
hmm interesting perspective
31 upvotes
Lily Gonzalez
it depends on the neighborhood
28 upvotes
Jace W.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I genuinely enjoy living here. Internet is excellent in most areas.
26 upvotes
Cooper White
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 6 years. Moved from Baltimore for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. Springfield schools are improving. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Kinsley W.
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
24 upvotes
Samuel Wright
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
21 upvotes
Hazel
Moved here from Boston about 1 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to healthcare but Hope this helps!.
14 upvotes
Willow Moore
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Midtown area are average. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Jordan
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
13 upvotes
Genesis Martinez
haha yep pretty much
7 upvotes
Chloe Price
I work in legal here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is excellent. Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Maya H.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is school system. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
5 upvotes
Aaron C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 8 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.