Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $880 for rent here. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Am I wrong here? The weather takes some getting used to. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
4 upvotes
10 Replies
Sadie Bailey
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
39 upvotes
Mackenzie Watson
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
37 upvotes
Andrea M.
I've lived in Riverside for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- The public transit scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Elena Cox
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
29 upvotes
Isabelle Lopez
facts
21 upvotes
Evan Peterson
I've lived in Fairview for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
- The cultural scene scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Ian Anderson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Charlotte and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Maple Ridge. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
13 upvotes
Gianna R.
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
13 upvotes
Savannah James
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 57, moved here 7 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Eastside and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited shopping options
3. The weather situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Dallas, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
9 upvotes
Nora L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 9 years. Moved from Minneapolis for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are decent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited public transit options. Homeless population growing downtown. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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