Springfield, Missouri, affectionately known as the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” offers a unique blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or a fresh start, understanding the local landscape can make your transition a lot smoother.
The Lake Movers team genuinely loves Springfield—it’s one of our favorite places to help folks start their next chapter. We’ve spent a lot of time in this community, moving families into historic homes near Rountree, helping students settle into apartments near Missouri State, and delivering furniture to charming bungalows in Phelps Grove. So we know the hidden gems, the neighborhoods with the best coffee shops, and even the smoothest streets to drive a loaded moving truck down. That’s why we put together this guide—packed with local favorites, real insights, and trusted tips—to help you settle into Springfield not just like a resident, but like a local who’s been here for years.
We’ve helped hundreds of families and individuals make their move to Springfield—and it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this city. Springfield offers that perfect blend of big-city convenience and small-town friendliness, making it one of our favorite places to work and live.
Cost of Living: One of the first things our clients notice is how affordable Springfield is. You can get more house for your money here compared to bigger Missouri cities like Kansas City or St. Louis, which means more room to grow, relax, and enjoy life.
Education: Springfield is more than just a college town—though Missouri State University brings great energy and opportunity to the area. The public school system is strong, and there are several private and charter schools for families to choose from, which makes relocating with kids a little less stressful.
Job Market: We’ve moved professionals in healthcare, educators, factory workers, and entrepreneurs—all drawn to Springfield’s diverse and growing job market. Whether you’re working in one of the local hospitals, teaching at MSU, or starting your own business, there are real opportunities here.
Outdoor Recreation: When we’re not hauling boxes, you’ll find many of us on local trails, fishing nearby lakes, or exploring the Ozarks. Springfield is surrounded by natural beauty, and locals take full advantage of it. From weekend hikes to morning jogs through neighborhood parks, there’s always a reason to step outside.
Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Springfield
One thing we’ve learned at Lake Movers? Springfield is made up of neighborhoods that each feel like their own little world—and we’ve had the pleasure of moving folks into just about all of them. Whether you’re looking for that downtown energy or a quiet street with big trees and friendly neighbors, Springfield has a place for you.
Downtown Springfield: If you’re into the arts, live music, or just want to be near great coffee and local eats, downtown might be your vibe. We’ve moved in plenty of students and young professionals who love the walkability, historic lofts, and the electric energy that comes from being at the heart of it all.
Rountree: This is one of our favorite neighborhoods to work in—and not just because the streets are lined with gorgeous old homes. Rountree has a true community feel. Neighbors know each other by name, and spots like Tea Bar & Bites feel more like a friend’s kitchen than a café. It’s a quiet, cozy corner of town that still keeps you close to everything.
Phelps Grove: If you’re moving with kids or just love being close to green space, you can’t go wrong here. Phelps Grove Park is the kind of place where you’ll see kids playing, joggers cruising by, and families spread out on picnic blankets. We’ve helped lots of folks settle in here who were looking for a balance of city access and outdoor peace.
Commercial Street (C-Street): C-Street has that old-school charm with a fresh new twist. We’ve moved artists, shop owners, and creatives into this area who love the unique energy it brings. You’ve got Café Cusco with its bold, flavorful dishes, vintage shops, and some of the coolest art spaces in town. It’s a little eclectic, a little edgy, and totally Springfield.
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Local Dining Gems
One of the best parts about moving to Springfield? The food. Seriously—this town knows how to eat. As movers who spend a lot of time crisscrossing the city, we’ve got our go-to spots (and a few post-move treats we always recommend to clients). Here are just a few local favorites we think you should try once you’re settled in—or maybe even during your first night in the new place, surrounded by boxes and pizza boxes.
Cashew Chicken: You can’t talk about Springfield food without starting here. This dish was born right here in town, and Leong’s Asian Diner is where it all began. It’s crispy, savory, and exactly what you need after a long moving day. Locals take their cashew chicken seriously—and once you try it, you will too.
Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes: Whether we’re grabbing lunch between jobs or recommending a dinner spot to new residents, Black Sheep always comes up. Their gourmet burgers are wild in the best way (try the Cowboy Carl), and their shakes are basically dessert dreams.
Gailey’s Breakfast Café: This downtown favorite is the kind of place where the staff remembers your order and the vibe is always laid-back. If you’ve got an early move-in, we suggest starting your day with Gailey’s stuffed French toast or their sweet potato hash. It’s been a Springfield staple for years—and we’re glad it is.
Hurts Donut Company: Open 24/7, this is the spot when you need something sweet after unpacking half the house. The donuts are big, colorful, and a little over-the-top (in the best way). We’ve picked up a dozen for teams and families more times than we can count—and it never disappoints.
Embracing Springfield’s Eclectic and Sporty Local Culture
At Lake Movers, we get to meet people from all walks of life—and one thing we always tell newcomers is that Springfield isn’t just a great place to live, it’s a great place to experience. There’s a creative, community-driven heartbeat here, and once you tap into it, this city starts to feel like home real fast.
Mother’s Brewing Company: Ask any local where to grab a laid-back drink and they’ll probably send you to Mother’s. Their beer garden is the perfect spot for live music, food trucks, and catching up with friends—especially on those sunny Missouri afternoons. After a long day of moving, a cold pint here hits just right.
Gillioz Theatre: We’ve helped musicians load gear through the backstage door here more than once, and every time we’re reminded what a gem this place is. The Gillioz brings in big acts and local talent, all inside a beautifully restored historic theater. Keep an eye on their event calendar—it’s always worth it.
First Friday Art Walk: If you’re settling into Springfield and looking for something fun to do, this is a great place to start. On the first Friday of each month, downtown comes alive with open galleries, street performers, and pop-up exhibits. It’s a great way to meet people, explore local art, and see the creative side of the city.
Springfield has a way of mixing old charm with fresh energy, and once you start exploring the local culture, you’ll start to see what makes this city so special.
Insider Tips for New Residents
(Shhhh… these are some of our best kept secrets!)
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After helping so many folks move into Springfield, we’ve picked up more than a few local tricks. These aren’t the flashy, touristy suggestions—you can find those anywhere. These are the tips we share with friends, family, and new neighbors when they first land in town.
Farmer’s Market of the Ozarks: Saturday mornings here are kind of a big deal. Located just south of town, this market is packed with local farmers, bakers, makers, and friendly faces. Whether you’re grabbing produce for the week or trying out fresh kettle corn for the first time, it’s a great way to plug into the community (and fill your pantry with some seriously good eats).
Route 66 Car Museum: A little quirky and a lot of fun, this hidden gem celebrates Springfield’s ties to the Mother Road. If you’re a car buff—or just need a break from unpacking boxes—it’s a cool place to spend an afternoon.
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield: Just a short drive southwest, this historic site is a peaceful spot for hiking, picnicking, or soaking up some Civil War history. It’s also a go-to for photographers during fall foliage season. Locals know it’s one of the best places around to clear your head and take in some fresh Ozarks air.
We’ve moved a lot of folks into Springfield over the years—from young professionals finding their first apartment downtown to families putting down roots in quiet neighborhoods like Southern Hills. No matter who you are or why you’re moving, we can tell you this: Springfield has a way of feeling like home faster than you expect.
It’s the kind of city where the coffee shop barista remembers your name, where local events bring the community together, and where there’s always a good spot to unwind after a busy day.
At Lake Movers, we’re not just here to get your belongings from point A to point B—we’re here to make your move easier, smoother, and just a little more exciting. Because we know you’re not just moving into a house. You’re starting a new chapter.
If Springfield is calling your name, we’d be honored to help you get there. Reach out today for a free quote, and let’s get you home.