How Has Springfield Changed Since I Left In 2002? (Nevada, California: crime, new house)

[dakota79]

I lived in Springfield from 1998-2002. I really enjoyed my time there, but my job took me to Nevada, Colorado, North Dakota, and Kentucky. Now, I have the chance to move back next year, and I am wondering if Springfield will still be a place I will enjoy or has it changed into a place I would not.

So how has Springfield changed since 2002. Population-wise, I only see slight growth within the city limits, but the metro area has really grown it seems. Even when I lived there, Christian County was the fastest growing county in the state. One thing I hated about living in Nevada and Colorado was that they had become very "Californicated". Prices had skyrocketed and non-natives were always wanting things to change. Once conservative areas were becoming super liberal and adopting an "anything goes" attitude. I always appreciated the more conservative feel of Springfield, despite being a city with several colleges.

When I lived there, crime existed, but I still felt fairly safe. I lived on the south side, which was always said to be a safe area. But I see that the Springfield crime numbers are up and I have read others' comments about gangs being there. Do you still feel Springfield is pretty safe? Is South Springfield still viewed as a good area to live.

As for new venues and such, I know Springfield now has a minor league baseball team and a new arena at Missouri State. The airport has more flights than when I lived there. They were working hard to revitalize downtown when I left. An ice arena had just opened, as had the Wonders of Wildlife Museum next to Bass Pro. So what else is new or has changed in Springfield?

I guess I am just looking for a little info and some opinions to get an idea if Springfield is as nice as I when I left 7 years ago. Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the times to share their thoughts.

[Hillman]

On average I would say you will be just as safe when you left as far as crime.

There is work around the city as to help move the traffic better.Some of its a pain but in the long run it will be nice.I still feel the need some way faster through the middle of town.

Yes the Springfield Cardinals are nice and not that exspencive.As far as Wonders of Wildlife it has been closed for renovation and it seems like forever and the people are not happy with whats going on with it.I just feel it was never ment to make money.To me the JQH Arena at Missouri State isn't that much different that the other but its New and can hold more people.As far as revitalize downtown they have been trying since the '70's on this just seems like they don't do that much and its a never ending endeavor.

If I wanted to live in a city Springfield is nice.

hillman

[mjnewyork]

You sound like my husband with the California liberals. Springfield is great. we moved here almost 2 years ago. I feel very safe. I have not seen any gangs, but we are on the south side also. And yes, Springfield is still a very conservative town, which my hubby loves! You can talk about politics here and all be on the same page. The cost of living is still low, and there are some new houses that are just beautiful, listed at great prices right now. They have added some new neighborhoods since you left that are really nice! I definitely would not move unless we had to, because of the job market. I think the salaries here are very low, unless you come here with a job. That would be the only downfall.