From MA also, take a deep breath of NE air before you leave. Nothing smells like "home". You'll miss the smells of spring and fall in NE. There will be brands and foods that you won't get down here as well but that cost of living! Huge difference. The area is beautiful. For a city it doesn't feel city-like. Although it has been expanding. You may want to check out Nextdoor.com (Springfield, MO area), it has different groups that you can join, and meet folks with similar interests. Last I knew there was a program available for those who were looking to buy a home in Springfield available through the city. (It's been awhile since I saw it while scrolling through the Springfield gov pages.. think during 2020). You may want to check with the clerk as they are trying to get fixer uppers rehab'd. Overall the folks are friendly and the area provides a decent amount of urban amenities, with country life easily accessible. *One tip on food here.. ham and beans is not a slice of ham with baked beans on the side, it's like a soup and they call a grinder a sub. And welcome soon to be Springfieldian.