We like that area of Oregon, and houses seem more affordable.
But what’s the general atmosphere, the “vibe?” Do you feel safe walking around? We’re generally private and quiet and don’t need a hot nightlife…just a pleasant, unthreatening environment–
What’s good and bad about Springfield OR?
I lived North of Springfield, and worked in town for several years. I loved the area and hope to move back.
Springfield blends in with Eugene. I tend to think of them as one Metro area.
Yes, it’s very safe. In general, people in Oregon are genuinely nice, culturally speaking. Springfield/Eugene is a nice area. Restaurants, an airport, decent shopping.
If you aren’t familiar with Oregon climate, be aware it starts raining in October and the sun comes back out in May or so. It may not rain every day, but the sun isn’t out either. I liked it, but not everyone does. There’s a coffee stand on every corner for a reason - folks need their caffeine! It will snow from time to time, but it’s not Midwest snow. A few inches usually.
The mountains are gorgeous, but I think you have to head North or South from Springfield to see the big ones. East to visit them. Not too far to get to the Coast either.
All together, I recommend it. Let me know if I can answer any other questions.
It’s no Shelbyville, that’s for sure.
Disclaimer: I do not live there and I don’t spend a lot of time there since I live rural, northwest of Eugene. But I have quite a number of friends who live there and I’ve been in the area for more than ten years. The people I know who live there do love it.
So… depends on where you’re coming from. Here in Lane County, Springfield is often referred to as, “Springtucky.” It’s considered the more down-at-the-heel part of the Eugene/Springfield area, rightly or wrongly. And that said, our less prosperous neighborhoods are generally nicer than many middle-class neighborhoods in other parts of the country. There is a somewhat higher incidence of crime east of Interstate 5 than other parts of the county. By crime, I mean such things as petty thefts, drunk driving and burglaries. Violent crime is rare here. All things considered, I would feel totally safe walking around there and would definitely call it a good place to raise a family.
There are some lovely pubs, good restaurants and more than a few charming areas. Eugene and Springfield are basically divided only by I-5, so you’re very close to downtown Eugene if you live there. Eugene is of course a college town and all that that implies. I think it’s a great thing. The mountains are very close, the McKenzie Highway out of Springfield is one of the most beautiful drives in the whole country, you can fish almost anywhere, good farm-fresh produce is readily available.
If you have the chance to be a resident, I’d jump at it. Do be choosy about your neighborhood, and you’ll be fine.
Thanks for info.
We’ve driven I-5 thru Duck Country several times, maybe even stopped briefly in Eugene, but have never explored the area. We love Oregon–too many features to list–including coast, rivers, forest, mountains, and the whole east-of-the-mountains region–Bend–we’ve never explored.
I know Springfield has a slightly “down-market” rep, but I’m accustomed to practicing “avoidance” so shouldn’t be a prob–I think some folks might over-emphasize the “down-market” aspect of Springfield too much–sounds like the pluses/minuses net out to a high plus.
Talk to a realtor about neighborhoods. Most are fine. Springfield is generally less expensive than Eugene, and it’s very easy to get to Eugene if you wish.