With a population of 167,882 as of the 2020 census, Springfield, Missouri is the third largest city in the state. Nicknamed the “Queen City of the Ozarks”, Springfield acts as the economic and cultural hub of the Missouri Ozarks region. Read on to learn more about this city in the heartland of America.
Population and Demographics
According to the Wikipedia page for Springfield, the city’s population reached 167,882 as of the 2020 census. This makes it the third largest city in Missouri after Kansas City and St. Louis. The Springfield metropolitan area, which encompasses Greene, Christian, Webster, and Polk counties, has a population of 462,380.
The racial makeup of Springfield is approximately 88.7% White, 4.2% African American, 0.8% Native American, 2.2% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 1.5% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. 4.4% of the population is Hispanic or Latino.
The median age in Springfield is 35.5 years old. 22.9% of the population is under age 18 while 13.1% is aged 65 or older. For every 100 females, there are approximately 96.2 males.
Economy and Major Employers
Springfield has a diverse economy based on sectors like health care, manufacturing, education, and transportation. Some of the top employers in Springfield include:
- Mercy Health (13,700 employees)
- Missouri State University (6,343 employees)
- CoxHealth (6,100 employees)
- City of Springfield (2,113 employees)
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services (1,300 employees)
- O’Reilly Auto Parts (1,119 employees)
The finance and insurance sector accounts for 7% of jobs in Springfield. Important companies include United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, MassMutual, and Standard Insurance Company. The transportation and warehousing sector, led by J.B. Hunt Transport Services, provides 5% of employment. Manufacturing accounts for 11% of jobs, with companies like 3M, Solo Cup Company, and CertainTeed operating facilities in town. Healthcare and education each provide about 16% of the city’s employment.
The unemployment rate in Springfield was approximately 2.9% as of June 2022. This is lower than the national average unemployment rate of 3.6%. The economy has strengths in manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and corporate operations. Springfield offers business incentives and tax abatements to attract companies to the region.
Attractions and Landmarks
Springfield offers a variety of attractions and things to do for visitors and residents alike. Some notable landmarks and attractions include:
- Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield – Site of a major Civil War battle in 1861.
- Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World – Large outdoor recreation retail complex and a major attraction.
- Dickerson Park Zoo – Popular local zoo with exotic animals and hands-on attractions.
- Springfield Botanical Gardens – Features rose gardens, water features, and over 2,000 plant varieties.
- Discovery Center of Springfield – Children’s science museum with interactive exhibits.
- Hammons Hall – State-of-the-art theater that attracts major music and dance performances.
The city is also home to several universities including Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University. These institutions help provide cultural and entertainment options, especially sports, theatre, and music.
Sports Teams
Springfield has one major professional sports team, the Springfield Cardinals. The Cardinals are a Minor League Baseball team playing at home in Hammons Field. They have been a Double-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals since 2005. You can visit the Springfield Cardinals website for ticket information and schedules.
Missouri State University also fields several Division I NCAA athletic teams that are popular in Springfield. Teams called the “Bears” compete in football, basketball, baseball, track and field, soccer, and other men’s and women’s sports. Many events are held at the new Plaster Stadium.
Springfield has supported minor league hockey teams in the past, including the Springfield Express and Dayton Demolition. Baseball has the longest history among professional sports, dating back early last century. Basketball, both college and pro, enjoys a big local fanbase as well.
Springfield on Social Media
You can follow the latest news and events happening in Springfield by following the city’s official Facebook page at facebook.com/CityofSGF. This is a great way to stay up to date on city announcements, local events, job openings, and more.
Local news stations like KY3 News and KOLR10 News also have Facebook pages where they frequently report on stories from around the Springfield area. Make sure to also search for and follow specific attractions, restaurants, or organizations you are interested in.
Living and Visiting Springfield
Springfield offers an attractive quality of life with a vibrant local economy. Education, manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare provide stable employment opportunities. Iconic brands like Bass Pro Shops, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and J.B. Hunt have deep roots and act as major community partners. The city supports the arts, outdoor recreation, sports, and cultural entertainment.
People looking to visit Springfield will enjoy exploring attractions like Bass Pro Shops and the Dickerson Park Zoo. Catching a Springfield Cardinals baseball game or Missouri State Bears event makes for an exciting time. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield provides history while the Botanical Gardens offer beautiful scenery. Springfield delivers small city charm alongside the amenities and growth of a regional economic hub.