COMMENT BY
Nicholas from Chatham, IL
COMMENT ABOUT PLACE
Chatham, IL
COMMENT
Mediocrity in Middle America
I've lived here for over 40 years. Springfield is a decent place to raise a family. Solid midwestern values, and I've always felt safe. Opportunities exist, but there is little about the city that is actually better than mediocre. Washington Park and the surrounding area is nice. The lake is nice. There are a couple decent neighborhoods, but for the most part the entire city is some version of mediocre to lousy.
Housing costs are low, but property taxes are insanely high. The schools vary widely, and few are what you would consider to be excellent.
There are decent restaurants and some arts, and the local high schools have decent sports, but for the most part, you have to leave town for anything truly interesting.