Springfield (The Simpsons)
Springfield is the fictional town serving as the primary setting for the animated television series The Simpsons. Its precise geographic location within the United States is deliberately kept ambiguous, serving as a running gag throughout the show's run.
While visually presented as a typical American town, Springfield encompasses a wide range of geographic features and socio-economic strata, allowing for diverse storylines and parodies of American culture. The town is home to various businesses, including the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant, where Homer Simpson works, as well as numerous shops, restaurants, schools, and cultural institutions.
Notable landmarks within Springfield include Evergreen Terrace (where the Simpson family resides), Moe's Tavern, Krusty Burger, and the Springfield Elementary School. The town's layout and population demographics frequently shift to accommodate the narrative requirements of individual episodes, further contributing to its intentionally undefined nature.
The ambiguity surrounding Springfield's location allows the show to satirize aspects of various American regions and communities, making it relatable to a broad audience. The town's culture is often depicted as a blend of working-class values, consumerism, and eccentric local customs. Its residents are a diverse mix of personalities, ranging from the well-meaning but flawed Simpson family to corrupt politicians and outlandish characters. Springfield, as a setting, is integral to the comedic and satirical nature of The Simpsons.