What to know when moving to Springfield, IL
Springfield at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A ZIP where 98.1% of residents are renters and the median household income is $32,444.
- The Major Draw:
- The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, rated 4.8 stars with 1,398 reviews.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 31.2%, economic challenges are evident.
- Commute:
- Only 0% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $667.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Springfield's character is shaped by its high rental population, with 98.1% of residents renting their homes. The median household income of $32,444 indicates a modest economic environment, while 35.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, suggesting a fairly educated community. Rain is a common occurrence here, with about 100 rainy days each year, so prepare for wet weather.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a strong public transit system, as only 0% of residents commute this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $667, making it a budget-friendly option for many.
- 35.1% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a well-educated community.
- The poverty rate is notably high at 31.2%, reflecting economic challenges.
- With 98.1% of residents renting, the area is predominantly renter-occupied.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Illinois, the property crime rate stands at 1,549 per 100,000 residents, slightly higher than the national average of 1,547. However, property crime has decreased by 16.1% from 2022 to 2025. On the violent crime front, the state rate is 245.7 per 100,000, which is about 24.5% lower than the national average of 325.3.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, down 28.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000 vs. national 1,547, down 16.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicides are down 52.6% since 2022, with a rate of 4.5 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Springfield offers access to several educational institutions, providing opportunities for higher education in the area.
- Postsecondary institutions: 6
- With College Scorecard data: 6
- Notable schools include Lincoln Land Community College and the University of Illinois Springfield.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Springfield experiences an annual precipitation total of 34 inches, with about 100 rainy days a year. The area sees an average of 3 inches of snowfall, with around 13 snow days annually.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site - 4.8 stars, 4,631 reviews
- Washington Park - 4.7 stars, 1,844 reviews
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum - 4.8 stars, 1,398 reviews
- Southwind Park - 4.7 stars, 1,237 reviews
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Sangamon County, the unemployment rate is at 5.0%, with a labor force of 94,854 individuals and 90,101 employed.
- Unemployment rate: 5.0% (December 2025)
- Employed: 90,101
- Labor force: 94,854
Source: BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics.