Springfield,IL Neighborhood Guides
Neighborhoods in Springfield, IL – Data, Lifestyle & Local Insights
Neighborhood Map
Discovering the Best Neighborhoods in Springfield, IL: A Friendly Guide
Springfield, IL, is a city full of charm, history, and welcoming communities. Whether you're a longtime resident or considering a move, exploring Springfield neighborhoods offers a delightful mix of experiences. From historic districts near the state capitol to vibrant areas bustling with local shops and eateries, each neighborhood has its own unique vibe. If you’re curious about the best neighborhoods in Springfield, a Springfield neighborhoods map is a great tool to start understanding the layout and what each area brings to the table.
Demographic Insights & Community Composition
Springfield's neighborhoods are wonderfully diverse in terms of demographics and community makeup. Areas like the South End are known for their strong family presence and multicultural population, while neighborhoods near Illinois State University attract a younger crowd, including students and university staff. The East Side and West Side neighborhoods often feature long-established residents, with deep roots and active neighborhood associations. Understanding the demographic makeup helps newcomers find the right fit for their lifestyle and community preferences.
Lifestyle Variety: What Different Areas Offer
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, Springfield neighborhoods have something to fit your lifestyle. The historic Mansion District offers beautiful, preserved homes and is close to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, making it a favorite for history lovers. For those who enjoy dining out, the downtown area features restaurants like Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery and Cozy Dog Drive In, iconic for its corn dog. Meanwhile, the North End boasts parks like Washington Park and family-friendly cafes, perfect for a laid-back weekend.
Housing, Affordability & Market Conditions
When it comes to housing, Springfield offers a wide range of options – from charming bungalows in the Old Capitol District to more modern apartments near the university. The real estate market tends to be affordable compared to larger cities, making it attractive for first-time homebuyers and retirees alike. Neighborhoods such as Carpenter Park offer mid-century homes that have been lovingly maintained, while areas like Lincoln Land provide newer developments. Checking a Springfield neighborhoods map can help you identify areas that best match your budget and desired amenities.
Crime, Safety & Neighborhood Stability
Safety is a priority for many residents, and Springfield neighborhoods vary in this regard. Generally, neighborhoods like the South Side and the newly revitalized downtown area have seen improvements in safety and community engagement. Neighborhood watch programs and active local police presence contribute to a stable environment. It’s always a good idea to review recent crime statistics and visit neighborhoods at different times to get a true feel for the community’s safety before deciding where to settle.
Springfield Demographics
Best Neighborhoods
| Hood | Med. Age | Have Kids | Home Price | Med. Income | Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iles Park | 30.2 | 33.6% | $87,900 | $34,829 | 1.5 |
| Near South | 39.3 | 17.8% | $88,760 | $59,878 | 1.5 |
| Harvard Park | 39.1 | 18.1% | $77,717 | $42,632 | 1.6 |
| Oak Ridge | 37.1 | 19.9% | $84,217 | $47,721 | 1.6 |
| Twin Lakes | 43.4 | 22.6% | $148,500 | $73,875 | 1.7 |
| Bunn Park | 46.1 | 11.5% | $75,825 | $42,336 | 1.8 |
| Old Aristocracy Hill | 37.1 | 14.9% | $97,700 | $46,822 | 1.9 |
| Youngston-Holiday Hill | 45.7 | 21.6% | $197,460 | $103,227 | 1.9 |
| Historic West Side | 37.4 | 22.2% | $115,840 | $55,881 | 2.0 |
| Koke Mill East | 49.8 | 23.6% | $203,000 | $99,185 | 2.0 |
Springfield neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Springfield—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Springfield, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.
Crime in Springfield
| Crime |
Reported |
Springfield /100k |
IL /100k |
National /100k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | 9 | 8.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 119 | 106.3 | 46.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 150 | 134.0 | 90.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 731 | 652.9 | 146.3 | 256.1 |
| Total Violent Crime | 1,009 | 901 | 289 | 359 |
| Burglary | 1,707 | 1,524.6 | 290.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 3,150 | 2,813.4 | 1,134.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle Theft | 642 | 573.4 | 290.4 | 258.8 |
| Total Property Crime | 5,499 | 4,911 | 1,715 | 1,760 |
| TOTAL CRIME | 6,508 | 5,813 | 2,004 | 2,119 |