Last updated 2026-07-10 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Queen City of the Ozarks, cheap living, Route 66 roots, and the lakes are a short drive.
Population: 169,724
Median 2BR rent: $1,050/mo
Typical local mover cost: $750-$2,400
Popular neighborhoods: Rountree, Phelps Grove, University Heights, Galloway Village, Midtown
Springfield sits in tornado alley, so March through June brings real storm risk. Pick a rental with a basement or interior safe room and learn the local warning sirens.
Climate: Hot humid summers, cold winters, spring storms.