The Springfields Of America Are Cost Of Living Bargains

Springfield's ubiquity as a place name may seem mundane, but researchers at BestPlaces have uncovered fascinating insights into its prevalence. Surprisingly, common U.S. place names like Fairview and Midway eclipse Springfield in frequency. However, Springfield's 34 populated places across 25 U.S. states and at least 11 townships in Ohio alone prove its enduring popularity. Even across the pond in Britain and Ireland, Springfield dots the map, with notable examples near Shrewsbury and Wigan. The team at BestPlaces thought it would be interesting to compare and contrast the U.S. Springfields with over 5,000 population, and found that the vast majority of them provide a very affordable cost of living to their residents.

In the tables below, a 100 cost of living score represents the national average. So, a cost of living score of 147 represents a cost of living that is 47% higher than the national average, while a cost of living score of 83 represents a cost of living that is only 83% of the national average.

Springfield, Missouri

• The population of the area is 168,603 and has increased by 5.8% since 2010
• Is its own metropolitan area and is located in Greene County
• Cost of Living index of 81.8
• The unemployment rate is 2.2%
• Median income is $32,473
• Median home price is $217,200
• Median age is 32.8
• Comfort Index is 7.6 in summer and 5.8 in winter on a scale of 1-10

The third-largest city in Missouri, it's known as the "Birthplace of Route 66.” Springfield became a popular stop along the iconic Route in the early 20th century, with plenty of restaurants, motels, and gas stations catering to travelers. The city was also the birthplace of several Route 66 attractions, such as the Steak 'n Shake chain of restaurants.

It also has a variety of natural attractions such as the Springfield Conservation Nature Center and the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park. Springfield, MO has continued to grow and thrive in recent decades, with a diverse population and a strong economy. The city is home to several universities, such as Missouri State University and Drury University, as well as a variety of cultural attractions such as the Springfield Art Museum and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.

The climate in Springfield, Missouri is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons.

Springfield, Massachusetts

• Population of 155,770 with 1.4% growth since 2010
• Is its own metropolitan area and is located in Hampden County
• Cost of Living index of 92.1
• Unemployment rate of 6.6%
• Median income of $34,731
• Median home price at $240,800
• Median age 32.9
• Comfort index of 9.1 in summer and 4.8 in winter on a scale of 1-10

The roots of the name Springfield in America go all the way back to 1636 when William Pynchon founded the first-ever Springfield in Massachusetts. Pynchon, an early American colonist who hailed from Springfield, Essex in England, named the new settlement after his hometown across the pond. Throughout the course of history, Springfield, Massachusetts has gained national significance, as it was the location of the United States National Armory founded by George Washington in 1777. However, it was during the 19th century that Springfield truly made its mark on the world, becoming a hub of the Industrial Revolution and leading the way in the development of interchangeable parts.

Located in Western Massachusetts, it's known as the "City of Firsts" due to its numerous innovations and inventions throughout history. Springfield is often referred to as the "Birthplace of Basketball," as the sport was invented by James Naismith at the Springfield YMCA in 1891. The city is home to the Basketball Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of basketball.

It also has a variety of green spaces, including Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the US. In recent years, Springfield has undergone a revitalization, with new developments and investment in the city's downtown area. The city is home to several colleges and universities, such as Western New England University and Springfield College, as well as cultural attractions like the Springfield Museums complex.

The climate in Springfield, Massachusetts is also classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons.

Springfield, Illinois

• Population of 114,672, down 2.1% since 2010
• Is its own metropolitan area and is located in Sangamon County
• Cost of Living index of 75.4
• Unemployment Rate 4.6%
• Median Income is $48,848
• Median Home Price $133,300
• Median Age 38.9 years
• Comfort Index (climate) of 8.4/5.2 in summer/winter months respectively on a scale of 1-10

Springfield, Illinois is the capital city of the state of Illinois and is best known as the home of Abraham Lincoln, who lived and worked in Springfield for many years. The city is rich in history and has several sites dedicated to Lincoln, such as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, and the Old State Capitol. Springfield also has a variety of other cultural attractions, including several museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as an active downtown area with many restaurants and boutiques.

The climate in Springfield, Illinois is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons including snowy winters, wet springs, warm and humid summers, and mild autumns. The economy of Springfield, Illinois is diverse and largely driven by services such as healthcare, education, and government, as well as some other industries such as manufacturing and tourism.

Springfield, Oregon

• Population of 62,138 with a 4.5% increase since 2010
• Part of the Eugene-Springfield metropolitan area and is located in Lane County
• Cost of Living index of 101.4
• Unemployment rate is 5.5%.
• Median household income is $39,355
• Median home price is $393,700
• Median age of 35.8 years old
• Comfort index is 9.2 for summer and 5.4 for winter on a scale of 1-10

Springfield, Oregon is a small city in the Willamette Valley known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including parks, trails, and rivers. It's often referred to with neighboring Eugene as Eugene-Springfield and offers a laid-back vibe with a number of cultural attractions and seasonal events.

Springfield's early economy was largely based on the milling industry, with several mills that processed lumber from the surrounding forests. In recent years, Springfield has continued to thrive, thanks to a diverse economy that includes healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The city has also made significant investments in transportation infrastructure.

Nearby Eugene is home to the University of Oregon, which offers concerts, theater productions, and sporting events. It’s also the unofficial home of TV’s animated “The Simpsons.” Overall, Oregon’s Springfield provides a small-town feel with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.

The climate in Springfield, Oregon is classified as cool, wet maritime, with mild temperatures year-round.

Springfield, Ohio

• Population of 58,992 (-2.5% since 2010)
• Is its own metropolitan area and is located in Clark County
• Cost of Living index of 75.9
• Unemployment rate of 4.0%
• Median income is $31,327
• Median home price is $153,600
• Median age is 36.9.
• Climate comfort index of 8.8 in the summer and 5.0 in the winter

In the heart of Ohio lies Springfield, a city positioned between two bustling metropolises, Dayton and Columbus. With its prime location on major transportation routes, this vibrant community is an ideal hub for commerce and industry. Springfield has a rich history of manufacturing, once being a key player in the automotive and agricultural machinery industries. Although the landscape has changed, the city's economy remains strong, thanks to major players like Honda and Navistar International (an American holding company created in 1986 as the successor to International Harvester).

Ohio’s Springfield is also notable for its beautiful historic architecture, including the Wescott House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s also home to several museums and galleries, such as the Art Museum of Springfield and the Heritage Center Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of parks and recreational opportunities, including the Buck Creek State Park and the Little Miami Scenic Trail. Additionally, the city holds several annual events throughout the year, including the Clark County Fair and the Summer Arts Festival.

The climate in Springfield, Ohio is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons.

Springfield, Virginia

• Population of 31,769, an increase of 4.0% since 2010
• Part of the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metropolitan area and is located in Fairfax County
• Cost of Living index of 142.8
• Unemployment rate is 2.4%
• Median income is $89,516
• Median home price is $604,700
• Median age is 39.7.
• Comfort index (climate) rating is 8.0 in summer and 5.8 in winter

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Springfield, Virginia is a scenic community with four distinct seasons. Here you'll find mild winters, wet springs, hot summers, and pleasant autumns, making it the perfect place to call home. The area offers a wealth of activities and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts – from hiking and biking in beautiful local parks to kayaking and fishing on nearby rivers.

Popular destinations for those looking to explore nature include Burke Lake Park, Lake Accotink Park, and the Shenandoah National Park. For a day of shopping and dining, head to the nearby Springfield Town Center. History buffs should visit George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and the Manassas National Battlefield Park.

In 1801, Springfield became a separate jurisdiction from Fairfax County and was officially incorporated in 1975. Throughout the years, the city has evolved to become one of Northern Virginia's most populous suburbs – offering residents access to major highways, modern amenities, and all the charm of small-town living.

Springfield, Tennessee

• Population of 18,561 with a 12.8% increase since 2010
• Part of the Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin metropolitan area and is located in Robertson County
• Cost of Living index of 92.6
• The unemployment rate is 2.9%
• The median income is $39,980 and the median home price is $299,300
• The median age is 36.5 years old
• The climate has a comfort index of 7.4 in summer and 6.0 in winter

In 1819, Springfield was first established as a stagecoach stop on the Nashville to Memphis route. Since then, the city has continued to grow and thrive. Notable historical landmarks include Old Town Fort, which served as an early trading post and defense point during the Civil War; the Cherry Mansion, a grand antebellum home built in 1871; and the Robertson County Courthouse, which was constructed in 1869. Springfield continues to be a thriving community with a proud history.

Springfield, Tennessee has a humid subtropical climate that offers warm weather throughout the year. Summers in the city tend to be hot with temperatures reaching into the high 80s and low 90s. Winters are mild and rainy, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing point. The area sees an average of 45 inches of rain each year and an average of 43 inches of snowfall annually. Springfield is known for its four distinctive seasons which adds to its charm and beauty.

Springfield, Vermont

• The population of the area is 9,089 and has decreased by 2.9% since 2010
• Part of the Lebanon metropolitan area and is located in Windsor County
• Cost of Living index of 85.3
• The unemployment rate stands at 2.1%
• Median income is $43,777 and median home price is $197,000
• Median age of the population is 46.3 years old
• Comfort index (climate) for the area is 9.0 in summer and 3.9 in winter

Springfield, Vermont offers a picturesque environment with plenty to do and explore. Activities for locals and visitors alike include hiking the famous Long Trail, skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, fishing the rivers of Vermont, or enjoying one of many annual festivals and events including the Wing Fling Festival and Corndog Festival.

Springfield, Vermont has a humid continental climate marked by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The average temperature ranges from 30 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. The area typically receives around 45 inches of precipitation annually with about 40 inches of snowfall during the colder months. Summers tend to be mild and sunny with occasional thunderstorms during July and August.

Typical of smaller U.S. towns, the main employers in the area include retail stores, restaurants, and hospitality businesses, banks, healthcare organizations, manufacturing and industrial companies, educational institutions, government organizations, and offices.

Springfield, Florida

• The population of the area is 8,429, a decrease of 5.1% since 2010
• Part of the Panama City metropolitan area and is located in Bay County
• Cost of Living index of 84.6
• The Unemployment Rate is 2.5%
• The Median Income is $35,511 and the Median Home Price is $196,200
• The Median Age in the area is 36.9 years old
• The Comfort Index for Climate for the area is 3.3/8.1 for summers and winters respectively

Springfield, Florida has a humid subtropical climate marked by hot and humid summers and mild winters. Temperatures range from 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 95 degrees in the summer. The area experiences an average of 55 inches of rainfall annually, with occasional thunderstorms during July and August.

The economy of Springfield is largely based on manufacturing, agriculture, retail stores, banks and healthcare organizations. Outdoor activities such as camping and fishing are popular forms of entertainment in the area, along with recreational sports like golfing and tennis. There are also several parks and wildlife areas for visitors to explore.

Springfield, Florida was first settled in the early 1800s by Native Americans and European immigrants. In 1852, the area was officially incorporated as a town. During the Civil War, Springfield provided supplies and shelter to Confederate troops. The early 20th century saw an economic boom as timber harvesting and turpentine production began in earnest. Following World War II, Springfield saw an influx of new residents who took advantage of affordable housing and employment opportunities in the area. Today, Springfield is home to more than 8,000 residents who enjoy its welcoming community atmosphere and diverse range of activities and attractions.

Springfield, Michigan

• Population of 5,268 with a slight increase of 0.2% since 2010
• Located in the Battle Creek metropolitan area and is located in Calhoun County
• Cost of Living index of 76.6
• Unemployment rate of 5.1%
• Median income is $37,038
• Median home price is $107,300
• Median age is 31
• Comfort Index (Climate) stands at 9.1 in summer and 4.0 in winter

Springfield, Michigan has a humid continental climate. Summers are typically warm and humid, while winters are cold and snowy. Spring and autumn have mild temperatures and moderate precipitation.

The economy of Springfield, Michigan is mainly driven by manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail industries. Major employers in the area include the Bronson Methodist Hospital and Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, and Kellogg Company.

From African savannah to North American forests, the Binder Park Zoo provides a unique opportunity to learn about different habitats and ecosystems. For those who love the great outdoors, the Kalamazoo Nature Center is another must-see destination in Springfield. Visitors can explore nature by canoeing on streams or participating in guided nature tours. Other popular attractions include the Gilmore Car Museum, an incredible collection of cars and motorcycles from around the world, and the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, where visitors can see a variety of birds from all around Michigan in their natural habitats.

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about America’s Springfields. As noted, most of these cities offer a great cost of living, so ultimately the best Springfield for you depends on your personal preferences with regard to climate, job opportunities, and recreational activities. Complete your research on the BestPlaces.net website, which has even more information on all these categories.