Random thought, I'm a remote worker and Median household income is $113,396, which feels pretty solid for the area. You can expect to pay around $1,802 for rent here. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Worth the trade-offs? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
14 upvotes
6 Replies
Jonathan M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 2 years. Moved from Phoenix for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is decent - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Riverside 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Chain restaurants dominate. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Leo Kelly
interesting, hadn't considered that
31 upvotes
Declan Walker
it depends on the neighborhood
30 upvotes
Isabelle Walker
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Houston it's underrated.
24 upvotes
oaklandfan2024
The food scene here is average. Tons of great Vietnamese places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
10 upvotes
Chloe Hernandez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 43, moved here 6 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in North and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The food scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
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