Moving From Mississippi to Eugene OR?

[Holly M]

I am moving in a few months to Eugene, I need to know good places to live in Eugene or Springfield. I am not concerned with noise..since I am coming from another college town. But crime is something I am worried about as well as the public school systems. I need details from someone who lives there please. The internet can only tell me so much. Thanks

[mwc.wedesign]

I don't live in Eugene OR, so I'm not going to be able to give you on-the-ground advice. However, if you get in touch with the Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, and/or the local Realtors Association or a particular real estate agency, like Century 21 or ReMax, in that area, they will be able to give you all the info you need. In selling houses, realtors prepare reports of what schools are in the area, availability of public transportation, etc. Even if you aren't going to be buying a house, a realtor will probably be glad to pass on to you the info you need. You might even be able to contact a realtor where you're living in Mississippi and ask him/her to either give the information available about housing in Eugene or tell you how to find that information by phone or on the Web. You can also contact your college and speak to someone in the career office, who can advise you on these important matters. If you're a designated "minority," contact the Minority Advisor (or coordinator or administrator) and ask advice. Look through your catelogue and see who else at the college can advise you. Don't be shy. It's their job and responsibility to help you make this transition.Hope you hear back from someone who lives in Eugene. And good luck at college!

[Wyody]

I recently took a trip down to Eugene. I live about 75 miles away and wanted to scope out the town for business reasons.
I didn't get to see as much as I wanted - but I can say that it is very much like other college-towns I have seen. Every road I jumped on seemed to loop and curve and end up bringing me back by the college. I can remark that it appeared reasonably clean and upscale.
I ended up driving thru Springfield - which looked very liveable but not nearly as upscale as Eugene. Plenty of places to eat - some shopping ... with the streets curiously reminding me of California towns - difference being that the surrounding mountains were prettier than most CA ranges.
Sorry I don't live there and so, can't help with your exact questions but as an overview, Eugene is pretty. Springfield is undoubtedly cheaper. Both areas have more runners and joggers than any other towns in the country and both are known to be liberal-esque - I would guess it might be a big change from Mississippi.

[PDXnative]

I lived for a short period in Eugene. Compared to "Big Cities", there is no "bad area" in Eugene. But, depending on what YOU like, it is hard to say. The best thing to do is just drive around and if you don't like the area, don't move there. Living near the college is a pain in the butt, though!!!! You need to buy a parking permit to park on the street. We used to park in our front lawn, as did many other people.

As for "noise", don't not live near the college or the stadium or on any busy roads. :)