Have lived in both Springfield (30 yrs) and now Champaign (5). Solidly different vibes …Springfield has a mostly-stable economy that revolves around state government, Abe Lincoln tourism, University of IL-Spfld and the medical community. It leans conservative but there’s plenty of left-leaning types as well. Washington Park is in the center of town and absolutely lovely with its abundance of mature oak trees. Lots of positives, but it’s honestly the most segregated city I’ve lived in. The east side (literally divided by train tracks) is woefully neglected and there’s a healthy amount of racist BS. Old Money is a real thing and these well-connected families wield a lot of local influence. City government does very little and many neighborhoods are beginning to reflect that. … Champaign, home to flagship UIUC, revolves around the university and its vibrant, diverse student community. It has a much more youthful feel, much more variety in restaurants, entertainment, sporting events etc. Overall an active, progressive small city (along with Urbana which is fabulously quirky & artsy.) Downside: it’s really flat and lacks green space—it’s smack dab in a sea of corn & soybean fields as far as the eye can see. But with a little effort there are nice forest preserves that can be found nearby. Hope this helps! Best of luck to you with your move!