Just moved here 14 months ago and The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,731 for rent here. It's a a smaller city city with about 53,453 people. Homes are going for about $447,700 on average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. TIA! Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
14 upvotes
8 Replies
Axel Ward
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely pretty good and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (West) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
37 upvotes
Eliana Richardson
bump
35 upvotes
lake_luca50
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 15 years. Moved from Minneapolis for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is average - we have desert landscapes 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 solid. 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. Limited public transit options. Limited entertainment options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Katherine Young
This.
32 upvotes
Everly
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want weather, then yeah this place is great. But if food scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
29 upvotes
Addison Parker
Used to live on the Midtown side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
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