First post here. Military spouse here. Crime rate is something to consider -Weatherly sits at 401.3 per 100K. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Poverty rate is 19.1%, which is higher than I expected. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Let me know your thoughts. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to.
0 upvotes
8 Replies
Wesley Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 2 years. Moved from Nashville for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. 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 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is tough - we have mountains 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 decent. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Limited entertainment options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
lake_leah57
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. food scene used to be much wild but now it's surprisingly good.
36 upvotes
Naomi Morris
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
33 upvotes
Wesley Martin
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The cultural scene is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
lake_leah57
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great farm-to-table places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
28 upvotes
Luna Wood
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great farm-to-table places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
11 upvotes
Chloe Robinson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 26, moved here 5 years ago from LA. I've lived in Midtown and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 LA, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
6 upvotes
Jackson F.
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..