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Stella Roberts best-worst

Somerset is underrated, change my mind

Hey everyone, My family moved here when I was a kid. Rent is about $830/month for a decent place. Median household income is $32,910, which feels on the lower side for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Anyone in a similar situation? Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
3 upvotes

3 Replies

Eugene P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in South for 11 years. Moved from Austin for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.

**Employment:**
construction is strong here. tech 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 love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are tough. 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. Winters are long and cold. Nightlife is limited. And food scene can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Maya E.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Springfield for 10 years. Moved from Dallas for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.

**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. real estate 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:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have beaches 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 average. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Bugs and humidity in summer. And safety can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Kai Flores
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.

If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely tough and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (Eastside) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.

But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.

My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
3 upvotes
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