Oak Ridge, Springfield,IL

If you're considering a move to Springfield, IL, the Oak Ridge neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a wonderful blend of suburban comfort and community charm. This area is known for its peaceful streets lined with mature trees and well-maintained homes, making it a perfect spot for families and professionals alike. Residents often appreciate the friendly, close-knit vibe of the neighborhood, where neighbors know each other and local events bring everyone together. Oak Ridge’s mix of single-family homes and townhouses provides a variety of housing options to fit different lifestyles and budgets.

One of the standout attractions in Oak Ridge is the Oak Ridge Park, which serves as a local hub for outdoor activities and relaxation. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces that are perfect for weekend picnics or morning jogs. Additionally, the neighborhood benefits from proximity to several excellent schools, shopping centers, and dining options, making daily errands and family outings convenient and enjoyable. For those who enjoy a bit of history and culture, the nearby Springfield museums and theaters are just a short drive away, offering plenty of entertainment options.

While Oak Ridge feels like a quiet retreat, it’s only about a 10 to 15-minute drive northwest to Downtown Springfield. This close proximity means residents can easily access the city's vibrant downtown scene, including local government offices, restaurants, and the famous Lincoln sites. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out for an evening of fun, the neighborhood’s location strikes a great balance between tranquility and accessibility. For anyone relocating to Springfield, Oak Ridge is definitely worth exploring as a welcoming and convenient place to call home.

About 27% of the Oak Ridge population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 20% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Oak Ridge demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,637 residents, Oak Ridge is notably smaller than many other Springfield neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,764 people per square mile, Oak Ridge offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Springfield neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 37, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Oak Ridge crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Oak Ridge, the median home price is $84,217, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Oak Ridge can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $794, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Oak Ridge. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Oak Ridge offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.