Number 17. That’s where Springfield lands on the Wall Street Journal’s list of the top 300 Winter Emerging Housing Markets Index. The list takes into account the real estate market as well as economic health and quality of life.

Mayor Langfelder says this ranking helps residents “understand our community value and that Springfield is moving in the right direction.” He adds that “not only is Springfield located geographically where residents can access other major cities, we have critical projects underway that are pushing Springfield to the future.”

The WSJ index takes into account the unemployment rate, wages, regional prices for consumer goods, amenities, and average work commute. Ryan McCrady with Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance says “reports like this are a tremendous asset in terms of business development and attraction because it reinforces everything we’ve been saying about what makes Springfield a great place to live and work.”