Springfield vs Springfield for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Springfield, MA vs Springfield, IL.
- 2BR rent: $1,300/mo in Springfield vs $1,900/mo — 32% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Springfield: $165K median vs $260K
- Higher median household income in Springfield: $50K/yr vs $47K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Springfield Massachusetts | Springfield Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $1,900 | $1,300Better |
| Median home price | $260K | $165KBetter |
| Median household income | $47K | $50KBetter |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,274 | $1,053Better |
| State income tax | 5%Better | 5% |
| Sales tax (combined) | 6.3%Better | 8.5% |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Springfield or Springfield?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Springfield scores slightly better for families overall. Springfield is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Springfield vs Springfield?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $1,900/month in Springfield and $1,300/month in Springfield. Springfield is 32% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Springfield or Springfield?
The price-to-income ratio in Springfield is 5.5× ($260K home, $47K income) vs 3.3× in Springfield. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Springfield is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Springfield vs Springfield?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,274/month in Springfield and $1,053/month in Springfield. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Springfield has a 5% state income tax rate vs Springfield's 5% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $0+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
See full side-by-side comparison
All cost categories including groceries, utilities, and leisure.