📍 About SPI & Springfield
Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) is located in Springfield, Illinois — the historic capital of the state and home to President Lincoln’s legacy. The city offers a relaxed pace of life with an affordable cost of living, plenty of local activities, and easy commutes.
🏡 Where to Live
Springfield Neighborhoods – Singles & Couples
- Downtown Springfield – Walkable, vibrant, arts and dining scene.
- West Side – Modern apartments, access to shops and restaurants.
- Leland Grove – Upscale suburb near the heart of the city.
Suburbs & Family Areas
- Chatham – Excellent schools, newer homes, family-focused.
- Sherman – Quiet suburb with parks and top schools.
- Rochester – Small-town feel, safe, great for kids.
- Pleasant Plains – Rural charm and great schools.
🚗 Commute Times to SPI
- 5–15 min: Downtown Springfield, West Side
- 15–25 min: Chatham, Sherman, Rochester
- 25–35 min: Pleasant Plains, Leland Grove
🎓 Top School Districts
🧳 Things to Do – Year-Round Fun
🌲 Outdoor Activities
- Washington Park: Trails, gardens, playgrounds.
- Lake Springfield: Boating, fishing, kayaking, picnics.
- Lincoln Memorial Garden: Hiking and nature programs.
🏛️ Cultural & Indoor
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
- Old State Capitol & Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site
- Local Breweries & Eateries: Obed & Isaac's, Engrained Brewing
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI): Right in Springfield, American & United service.
- St. Louis Lambert Int’l Airport (STL): ~1 hr 45 min for more flight options.
- Central Illinois Regional (BMI): ~1 hr 20 min, alternate regional airport.
🧭 Helpful Resources
💰 Cost of Living
- Housing: Median home price ~$165,000. 1-bedroom rent ~$850–$1,000/month.
- Groceries: ~4–6% below national average. Milk ~$3.20, eggs ~$2.50.
- Gas: ~$3.30/gallon (fluctuates seasonally).
- Utilities: ~$140–$200/month for a typical apartment.
- Taxes: Illinois has state income tax (~4.95%) and property taxes are higher than national average.
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Downtown Springfield: History, restaurants, arts scene.
- West Side: Target, Hy-Vee, restaurants, newer homes.
- Chatham: Suburban with parks and excellent schools.
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Cold, snowy. Temps ~20–35°F. Snow tires suggested.
- Spring: Mild and wet. Temps ~50–70°F. Tornado season peaks.
- Summer: Hot & humid. Temps ~80–95°F. Occasional storms.
- Fall: Crisp and cool with beautiful foliage.
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- Springfield Mass Transit: Fixed-route buses cover most of the city.
- Traffic: Light. Rush hour adds only 5–10 minutes.
- Car: Recommended for flexibility, especially outside the city core.
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Memorial Medical Center – Major hospital and trauma center.
- HSHS St. John’s Hospital – Full-service medical center.
- Springfield Clinic & Urgent Care – Walk-in services throughout the area.
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Young Professionals: Breweries, trivia nights, coworking hubs.
- Families: Park programs, library events, kids’ museums.
- Volunteering: Food banks, animal shelters, historic sites.
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Local Favorites: Obed & Isaac’s, D’Arcy’s Pint (horseshoe sandwich!), Saputo's.
- Ethnic Cuisine: Osaka Japanese, La Fiesta Mexican, Little Saigon.
- Coffee & Dessert: Custom Cup, Wm. Van’s Coffee House, Pease’s Candy.
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Shifts: Rotating — get blackout curtains for restful sleep.
- Weather: Prepare for rapid changes and seasonal storms.
- Living Nearby: West Side and Chatham are top picks for quick commutes.
📦 Moving Tips
- Timing: Summer and fall offer the most apartment availability.
- Storage: Affordable local units available around town.
- Snow Gear: Winter coat, scraper, gloves, all are a must.
❓ FAQs
- Is Springfield affordable?
Yes — very reasonable compared to most U.S. cities. - Is the city safe?
Yes, especially west and south sides. Downtown is walkable. - Do I need a car?
Highly recommended. Bus service exists but limited.