Springfield IL

Springfield, IL – Rich in history and hometown warmth, Springfield is a city where Abraham Lincoln's legacy lives on. From its charming downtown streets to the rolling hills of the surrounding prairie landscape, this capital city blends small-town hospitality with historic treasures. Whether you're exploring presidential landmarks, enjoying local eats, or strolling through peaceful parks, Springfield welcomes you with open arms.

• Population: ~115,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons (20-85°F); cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers.
• Places To Visit: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Old State Capitol, Dana-Thomas House, Lincoln Tomb, Washington Park.
• Top Activities: Touring historic Lincoln sites, biking on city trails, enjoying the Illinois State Fair, boating on Lake Springfield, exploring local art galleries.
• Famous Food: Cozy Dog (original corn dog), horseshoe sandwich, homemade pies, fresh sweet corn, local diner fare.

Springfield, IL, the capital of Illinois, has a diverse economy built on government services, healthcare, education, and insurance. As a central hub for state operations, it offers many employment opportunities in both public and private sectors. Here are the top jobs in Springfield based on demand, salary, and job market trends.

Top 5 Jobs in Springfield, IL

Springfield, IL offers plenty of cool spots where students can kick back, chill out, and have fun outside of class. Whether you enjoy grabbing tasty eats, hanging out in parks, or catching some entertainment, this city has something for everyone.

Washington Park – Perfect for relaxing with friends, Washington Park offers lush green spaces, scenic picnic spots, tennis courts, and trails. It's ideal for taking a break outdoors after a long day of studying.

Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery & Eatery – Located downtown, Obed & Isaac's is a friendly spot where students can chill over tasty food and locally crafted beverages. With a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for relaxing with friends.

White Oaks Mall – If shopping is your way of relaxing, White Oaks Mall is the perfect place to browse stores, enjoy snacks at the food court, or catch a movie nearby. It’s a great weekend hangout spot.

Knight's Action Park & Route 66 Drive-In – During warmer months, cool off and unwind at Knight’s Action Park, featuring water slides, pools, and mini-golf. At night, head next door to Route 66 Drive-In to watch popular movies under the stars.

Café Moxo – This cozy downtown café is perfect for catching up on homework, meeting friends, or taking a relaxing coffee break. Their homemade goodies are delicious, affordable, and student-friendly.

Engrained Brewery & Restaurant – Just a short drive from campus, Engrained Brewery offers tasty meals made from locally grown ingredients and a casual atmosphere great for hanging out with classmates. Don't miss their game nights and fun trivia events.

Buzz Bomb Brewing Co. – Known for laid-back vibes and board games, Buzz Bomb Brewing Co. is a great place for students to hang out downtown after classes or on weekends. Their cozy lounge area makes relaxation easy.

Springfield, Illinois is a hub of higher education in the heart of the state. Offering a blend of academic excellence, supportive communities, and career-focused programs, the city is home to reputable public and private institutions. Whether you're pursuing a degree in healthcare, liberal arts, technology, or business, Springfield's colleges and universities offer programs to help students succeed in the real world.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Springfield

University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) – A respected member of the University of Illinois system, UIS is known for its public affairs, business, computer science, and liberal arts programs. With small class sizes and a commitment to student success, it's a top choice for those seeking quality education at a public university.

Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) – LLCC offers affordable tuition and strong associate degree and certificate programs in areas like nursing, automotive technology, and culinary arts. It's a popular choice for students planning to transfer to a four-year university.

Capital Area School of Practical Nursing – Known for its focused, hands-on approach to healthcare education, this public institution prepares students for licensure as practical nurses and supports continuing education in the medical field.

Midwest Technical Institute – Springfield – Although primarily offering technical and vocational training, this institution provides practical skills in fields like welding, HVAC, and dental assisting. It plays an important public role in workforce development.

Illinois Department of Corrections Training Academy – While not a traditional college, this state-operated facility offers highly specialized training and education programs for those pursuing careers in law enforcement and criminal justice.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Springfield

Benedictine University at Springfield (formerly Springfield College in Illinois) – Though it transitioned from a full four-year campus, Benedictine University continues to offer adult degree-completion and graduate programs in business, education, and healthcare, with a focus on leadership and ethics.

St. John's College of Nursing – Founded over 130 years ago, this private nursing school partners with hospital systems to offer degrees in nursing and healthcare leadership. It is recognized for its high NCLEX pass rates and clinical training excellence.

Robert Morris University – Springfield Campus (now part of Roosevelt University) – Though now merged with Roosevelt University, this institution formerly offered private education in business, technology, and allied health, continuing to serve students in central Illinois through flexible and career-focused programs.

Premier Dental Institute – A private institution offering concentrated education and certification in dental assisting, this school prepares students for immediate entry into the growing dental care field with hands-on instruction and professional guidance.

University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) – This private college specializes in cosmetology, esthetics, and massage therapy, providing creative and practical training for careers in the beauty and wellness industries.

Springfield, Illinois, offers a strong selection of high schools dedicated to academic success, personal growth, and community involvement. Students in the state's capital city can find high-quality education in both public and private institutions that prepare them for college, careers, and beyond.

Top Public High Schools in Springfield, IL

• Springfield High School – One of the oldest schools in the city, Springfield High offers a range of AP and honors courses. Known for strong academics and a robust performing arts program.
• Southeast High School – This public high school stands out with its career and technical education programs, along with a vibrant athletics department and supportive faculty.
• Lanphier High School – A diverse school focused on academic improvement and student engagement. Known for community service involvement and extracurricular opportunities.
• Glenwood High School (Chatham Unit School District) – Although located just outside Springfield, this public school serves many local students. Known for its excellent test scores and strong STEM offerings.
• Auburn High School – A smaller public school in the Springfield area, Auburn High receives praise for its close-knit community, dedicated teachers, and advanced placement courses.

Top Private High Schools in Springfield, IL

• Christ the King Jesuit College Prep – A top choice for Catholic education in central Illinois. Offers values-based learning and a college-prep curriculum.
• Sacred Heart-Griffin High School – A well-known Catholic school that combines faith-based education with strong academics and competitive sports programs.
• Calvary Academy – Offers a Christian-based curriculum with small class sizes, personalized learning, and programs that help students develop leadership skills.
• Rochester Christian School – Serving students from elementary through high school, this school emphasizes moral development along with scholastic achievement.
• Springfield Lutheran High School – Provides faith-centered education with a focus on preparing students academically, spiritually, and socially for life after graduation.

Springfield, Illinois, may not have major league professional sports teams like some larger cities, but the capital city still boasts a passionate sports community. It is home to minor league and semi-professional teams that provide exciting entertainment and feature rising talent across different leagues.

⚾ Baseball – Springfield Lucky Horseshoes (Prospect League)

• Springfield Lucky Horseshoes – Formerly known as the Springfield Sliders, the team rebranded in 2022 as the Lucky Horseshoes. They are a summer collegiate baseball team competing in the Prospect League, a league that showcases rising college baseball stars. The team plays its home games at the historic Robin Roberts Stadium, which has been a centerpiece of Springfield baseball since 1925.

🏈 Football – Capital City Outlaws (Semi-Pro Football)

• Capital City Outlaws – The Outlaws are a semi-professional football team competing in regional leagues. Though not affiliated with the NFL, the team provides an opportunity for local players to extend their football careers and stay involved with the sport. They play in front of dedicated fans and serve as an important part of the Springfield sports community.

🏀 Basketball – No Current Professional Team

• While there is currently no professional or semi-professional basketball team based in Springfield, the city supports a strong local basketball culture through high school and college programs, including University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), which competes in NCAA Division II athletics.

🏒 Hockey – Springfield Junior Blues (NAHL)

• Springfield Junior Blues – A proud member of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), the Springfield Junior Blues are a junior ice hockey team that has been developing young talent since 1993. Many players from the Junior Blues have gone on to NCAA programs and even professional leagues. They play home games at the Nelson Center in Springfield’s Lincoln Park.

⚽ Soccer – Springfield Athletic SC (Amateur)

• Springfield Athletic SC – An amateur club formed to promote local talent and community engagement, Springfield Athletic SC competes in regional soccer leagues and showcases the growing interest in the sport. Although not a professional team, they provide a strong foundation for soccer development in central Illinois.

Springfield, Illinois, might be best known as the home of Abraham Lincoln, but this Midwestern city has a lot more up its sleeve. From presidential history to quirky attractions, here are some fun facts about Springfield, IL:

1. Honest Abe’s Hometown – Springfield is where Abraham Lincoln lived for 24 years before becoming president. You can still visit his home, law office, and final resting place.
2. A Rare Capitol – Springfield has had the title of Illinois’ capital since 1839, beating out cities like Vandalia and Kaskaskia.
3. The Route 66 Connection – The city is one of the many cool stops along the historic Route 66, offering diners and neon signs straight out of the 1950s.
4. A Giant Muffler Man – Springfield is home to the famous “Lauterbach Giant”, one of the classic muffler men statues, standing tall since the 1960s.
5. A Taste of History – Springfield is the birthplace of the horseshoe sandwich, a delicious and heavy meal made with toasted bread, meat, fries, and cheese sauce.
6. Presidential Library – The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is one of the most visited presidential museums in the nation.
7. Statehouse with a Dome – The Illinois State Capitol building has the tallest non-skyscraper dome in the U.S.—even taller than the U.S. Capitol in D.C.!
8. The Old Capitol – Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech at the Old State Capitol, which still stands in Downtown Springfield.
9. Underground Secrets – Beneath the city lies a system of vaults and tunnels used in historic mail delivery and banking.
10. Annual State Fair – The Illinois State Fair draws hundreds of thousands every August with food, concerts, and carnival rides—it’s a time-honored tradition!