Cooper Park, Springfield,MO

If you're considering a move to Springfield, MO, the Cooper Park neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth checking out. This charming community offers a blend of suburban comfort and convenient access to city amenities, making it an appealing choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout features of Cooper Park is its proximity to the beautiful Cooper Park itself, a sprawling green space perfect for outdoor activities like jogging, picnicking, and family outings. The park boasts well-maintained trails, playgrounds, and sports fields that make it easy to stay active and enjoy nature without leaving your neighborhood.

Beyond the park, residents of Cooper Park enjoy a variety of local attractions that add to the neighborhood's appeal. There are several cozy coffee shops, family-friendly restaurants, and boutique stores scattered throughout the area, giving the community a welcoming, small-town feel within a larger city. For those who enjoy a bit of retail therapy or entertainment, the neighborhood is just a short drive from Battlefield Mall and Route 66 Entertainment District, where you can find everything from shopping and dining to live music and movie theaters. The neighborhood’s community vibe is enhanced by local events and gatherings, which are great opportunities to meet neighbors and get involved in the area.

One of the biggest perks of living in Cooper Park is its easy access to Downtown Springfield, which is just about a 10 to 15-minute drive away. This means you can enjoy the quieter, family-friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood while still being close enough to take advantage of the vibrant cultural scene downtown. Whether you’re heading to work, catching a show at the Gillioz Theatre, or exploring the local art galleries and breweries, the commute is quick and hassle-free. Overall, Cooper Park offers a wonderful balance of outdoor fun, community spirit, and city convenience, making it an ideal place to settle down and enjoy all that Springfield has to offer.

In Cooper Park, 23% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 23% 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.

Cooper Park 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 3,308 residents, Cooper Park 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 720 people per square mile, Cooper Park 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 34, 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 Cooper Park crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Cooper Park, the median home price is $179,600, 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 Cooper Park 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 $838, 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.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Cooper Park. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Cooper Park can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.