When choosing a new place to call your home, there seem to be only two options – the hustle and bustle of a big city or the quiet refuge of a rural area. In Springfield, however, residents can say they are enjoying the best of both worlds.
If you’re considering moving to Springfield, MO, you can look forward to an urban lifestyle that retains the comforts of the countryside. This city is a great place to live, whether you’re seeking a place to establish a career, grow your family, or spend your golden years.
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Cost of Living in Springfield, MO
The overall cost of living index in Springfield, Missouri, is 83.9. This means that the total cost of housing, food, childcare, transportation, health care, taxes, and other necessities is 16.1% lower than the national average and 2% higher than the state average.
A typical home in this city costs $217,200, which is 35.8% less expensive than the national average of $338,100.
To live comfortably in Springfield, a family would need a minimum annual income of $41,760. For a single person, an annual income of $27,600 is recommended.
Our cost-of-living indices in the table below are based on a US average of 100. An amount below 100 means Springfield is cheaper than the US average, while those above 100 are more expensive.
| Cost of Living | Springfield | Missouri | United States |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 83.9 | 85.6 | 100 |
| Grocery | 94.5 | 94.9 | 100 |
| Health | 100.5 | 104.3 | 100 |
| Housing | 58.8 | 66.5 | 100 |
| Utilities | 96.5 | 98.5 | 100 |
| Transportation | 83 | 86.2 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 90.7 | 85.6 | 100 |
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Finding a Home
Springfield offers a variety of single-family home types, such as ranch-style residences commonly located in established neighborhoods, split-level homes in suburban areas, and contemporary homes in newer developments.
Most properties in this location were built from the 1960s to the present day and feature three to four bedrooms. You can explore the different property types for sale in Springfield, Missouri, using this link.
For those who prefer to rent, the table below shows the average monthly rent in Springfield, Springfield Metro, the state of Missouri, and the country.
Average Apartment Rent by Bedroom Size
| No. of Bedrooms | Springfield | Springfield Metro | Missouri | United States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $690 | $670 | $710 | $1,080 |
| 1 Bedroom | $690 | $670 | $770 | $1,180 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $890 | $860 | $950 | $1,430 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 | $1,200 | $1,250 | $1,860 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 | $1,350 | $1,450 | $2,160 |
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Education and Schools
The Springfield metro area is home to 26 school districts, including Springfield Public Schools—the largest fully accredited district in the state.
Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield community have been developing and implementing specialized learning programs to meet the needs of all students.
All five public high schools in Springfield are A+ schools, and the district boasts an average ACT score that ranks above the state and national averages.
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Employment Opportunities
Some of the major industries found in the Springfield metro area are manufacturing, financial services, transportation, retail, education, and health care.
Large corporations in the Springfield area include:
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- Bass Pro Shops
- BKD, Prime Inc.
- SRC Holdings
- Jack Henry & Associates
The two major healthcare systems, Mercy Hospital Springfield and CoxHealth, are among the city’s big employers. The public school system and Missouri State University offer career opportunities in education.
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Healthcare Services
Springfield residents have access to numerous local hospitals and medical facilities that provide quality care and treatment. Many local clinics can also be found throughout the city, providing preventive care, mental health services, and education on healthy lifestyles.
The city of Springfield works closely with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to ensure that residents are provided with preventative healthcare resources. Various programs and initiatives aimed at promoting wellness are also in place.
The local government offers support for those who cannot afford health care due to financial constraints or other limitations.
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Weather and Seasons
Springfield, MO, has a refreshingly diverse climate that brings new experiences with every season.
- Moderately cold winters with occasional snowfall.
- Mild springs with frequent rain showers.
- Warm, sunny summers from June through mid-September.
- Cool autumns featuring colorful foliage displays.
A typical year in Springfield weather has 210 days of sunshine, 45 inches of rainfall, 20 inches of snowfall, and 97 days of precipitation.
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Embracing the Local Culture
If you love performing arts, you’ll be very happy to know that this city is home to the Springfield Regional Opera Lyrical Theater, the Springfield Ballet, and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra – all offering a variety of performances throughout the year.
Live performances can also be enjoyed at the city’s old theaters, like the newly renovated Gillioz Theater, which opened in 1926. Today, the theater house serves as a concert venue for popular bands from all over the country.
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Outdoor Activities
Springfield boasts over 105 park sites, four golf courses, three family centers, a zoo, a farm park, botanical gardens, outdoor swimming pools, over 100 miles of recreational trails, and more than 70 miles of greenways.
Many of these attractions are available for free or at a low cost.
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Community and Events
The city is filled with various events that bring locals together year-round, from marathons to farmers’ markets to art fests.
Those who are looking for activities that support their active lifestyle can look forward to these athletic events all throughout the year:
- Tour De Ozarks Bicycle Race
- Ozark Greenways Adventure Race
- Bass Pro Shops Conservation Marathon and Half Marathon
Artsy residents will enjoy these events held throughout the city:
- First Friday Art Walk
- Walnut Street Arts Fest
Every Thursday and Saturday in the months of March through October, residents can buy local, organic produce from The Farmers Market of the Ozarks.
Conclusion
With all these wonderful things to look forward to, it is no doubt that this city is an ideal place to call your next home.
If you’d like to know more about the area and the available homes for sale in Springfield, MO, feel free to give me a call at 417-241-6565 or send me an email at office@gatewaymo.com so we can schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Springfield, MO?
The months of May through August are the best time for tourists to visit Springfield, as the temperatures are warm enough to let you enjoy the culture and heritage of this historic town.
Are there any public transportation options in Springfield?
The Bus is a public transportation provider in Springfield, MO, operating 16 Bus routes with 729 Bus stops.
Can I find diverse dining options in Springfield?
Yes, Springfield features a wide array of diverse dining options, from classic American comfort foods like flame-grilled steaks and hearty burgers to Indian buffets.
Is Springfield prone to natural disasters?
Due to Missouri’s geography, Springfield is frequently visited by natural disasters, such as ice storms, tornadoes, severe storms, and flooding.
Is Springfield, MO, a family-friendly city?
Definitely! Especially because Springfield has a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the country. With more affordable basic expenses, living here is ideal for families.
