Let the numbers do the talking.
Springfield, MO vs St. Louis, MO
Springfield, MO vs St. Louis, MO: What the data shows
Springfield, MO is in Springfield, MO while St. Louis, MO is in St. Louis, MO — both in the same state. On home prices, Springfield, MO is the more affordable option at $82,600 median — $152,100 less than St. Louis, MO's $234,700. WYLT rates Springfield, MO as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend — and St. Louis, MO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Springfield, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. St. Louis, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Springfield, MO has Low flood risk and St. Louis, MO has Low flood risk.
St. Louis, MO is the more walkable neighborhood. Springfield, MO scores 53/100 (somewhat walkable) versus St. Louis, MO's 60/100 (somewhat walkable).
| Category | Springfield, MO | St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Hard pass | Good for now |
| Median Price | $83K ✓ Lower price | $235K |
| Median Rent | $788 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $26K | $86K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 53/100 | 60/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 47/100 | 53/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 44/100 ✓ More bikeable | 25/100 |
| Commute | 199 min | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | N/A |
| Best for | Budget buyersSingle professionalsRetirees looking for low cost | young professionalsrenterswalkers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize affordability and a low cost of living, Springfield may be a tolerable choice, but be aware of its significant drawbacks. For most people, especially those with families or seeking a more vibrant community, St. Louis is a better option, despite its higher cost and lack of good schools. St. Louis offers more amenities, a shorter commute, and a more walkable environment, making it a more livable choice for young professionals and renters.
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