Springfield, Missouri
What It Is Like to Retire in Springfield
Springfield is the 3rd largest city in Missouri (160,000 people) and is nicknamed the Queen City of the Ozarks. Located in southwestern Missouri, this is the start of the famous Route 66 known to so many baby boomers, and also home to Missouri State University. Locals report a resurgence in the old downtown area with lofts being converted to apartments and the restoration of historic theaters. Photo of View of the Square courtesy of Wikipedia and Daderot (public domain). .
Watch this short Youtube video prepared by Live in Springfield, MOWhere to Retire in Springfield and Home Prices
Springfield has many neighborhoods and suburbs to choose from, including nearby Nixa. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median sales price of a home was about $196,600 in the 2nd quarter of 2021, an 19.5% rise from a year earlier.
What Is Special about Springfield
There are 92 parks including the Botanical Center at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, three golf courses, and a zoo. In 1865 there was a "quick-draw" shoutout between Wild BIll Hickock and Davis Tuft - a plaque commerates where they stood on the old town sqare. Springfield is the birthplace of Route 66, the orginal highway between Chicago and Los Angeles. Bass Pro Shops is headquartered here.
What Is Not Special about Springfield
The crime rate index in Springfiled is very high. Yet the discussion boards at City-Data have plenty of discussion from locals who never lock their doors or feel threatened at all. As we often say on this site, crime rates should be viewed with some suspiciion. It is all about neighborhoods and the type of crime.
Who Will Like Retirement in Springfield
People who like the midwest and living in a smallish city.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Healthcare is a big industry. Springfield is home to several corporations including Bass Pro.
Climate and Physical Environment
Springfield is in southwestern Missouri. The average January temp is 30 and the average July temp in the high 70s. Humidity is higher than average.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Several restored theaters are downtown. The Creamery Arts Center, a city-owned building inside Jordan Valley Park, is home to the Springfield Regional Arts Council, Springfield Regional Opera, Springfield Ballet, and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. There is a first Friday Art Walk every month. There are several arts events that occur annually including the Walnut Street Arts Fest and the Missouri Literary Festival.
Crime
The crime index is much higher than the national average.
Medical facilities
Springfield is a regional medical center with six hospitals and more than 2,200 beds.
Transportation
Springfield-Branson Airport serves the region. Interstate 44 goes through here.
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