Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a college student here and The unemployment rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Anyone in a similar situation? The city has invested a lot in new development.
9 upvotes
7 Replies
Sophia James
wish I knew this sooner
40 upvotes
Vivian Nelson
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
29 upvotes
Levi Gonzalez
I work in marketing here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is underrated. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Austin Lee
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The nightlife is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Susan K.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 5 years. Moved from Seattle for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Cedar Grove schools are underrated. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Dating scene is rough. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
denvernative2023
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 13 years. Moved from Miami for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. government 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is decent - 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 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. Dating scene is rough. Homeless population growing downtown. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
Julia Lewis
Came here for family and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The walkability is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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