Worth the trade-offs? The city has invested a lot in new development.
23 upvotes
6 Replies
Vivian M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Highland. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Joshua R.
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
19 upvotes
Henry Scott
it depends on the neighborhood
13 upvotes
Madelyn Brown
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Springfield area are solid. Kids love it here.
11 upvotes
Landon D.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 32, moved here 3 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Springfield and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The outdoor recreation situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Phoenix, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
9 upvotes
Evan Hill
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Nashville and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Cedar Grove. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like Southern.