Anyone else feel this way? The weather takes some getting used to.
16 upvotes
13 Replies
Sarah Morgan
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
40 upvotes
Everly Foster
hmm interesting perspective
39 upvotes
indy_melanie
I'm a lawyer and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
Lillian White
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Meadowbrook. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in education. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
35 upvotes
Eliana Morales
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Pine Hills area are tough. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
Mackenzie F.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
31 upvotes
Elijah Jimenez
facts
30 upvotes
Carson Kim
I work in education here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is underrated. Feel free to reach out with questions..
27 upvotes
Eli Nguyen
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 8 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
19 upvotes
Eva Lewis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 11 years. Moved from Houston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town 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. Nightlife is limited. Road conditions need improvement. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
17 upvotes
Owen Hernandez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
5 upvotes
Logan Wright
noted, appreciate it
3 upvotes
Mia Johnson
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.