Springfield, the state capital, is a quiet agricultural center with a strong government presence. This quiet town with a fairly well-educated population has a substantial heritage built around Abraham Lincoln’s residence and activities. It is “altogether fitting” that the Lincoln memorabilia should be mixed into such a traditional, mid-American city.

The low cost of living makes it that much more attractive. Health care facilities are above average, anchored by major branch campus medical and pharmacy schools. The employment scene is dominated by government and healthcare providers; employment is solid but not on a strong growth trajectory. Violent crime rates are high especially for the region, and aside from historic sites, there isn’t much to do in the city or surrounding area.

Springfield is located in the middle of a vast agricultural plain with rolling terrain near the Sangamon River and Spring Creek. Numerous deciduous trees grow in the city itself. Climate is typical continental with sharp, seasonal changes. Summers bring sunny, clear, warm, and humid days with frequent afternoon thundershowers. Windy, changeable springs and relatively calm autumns are typical. Winters are fairly cold. Precipitation is evenly spread throughout the year. First freeze is mid-October, last is mid-April.