Anyone else feel this way? The unemployment rate is 1.7%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,202 for rent here. It's a a smaller city city with about 64,355 people. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Any advice would be great. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development.
17 upvotes
15 Replies
Olivia
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely challenging and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
39 upvotes
Mason Phillips
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
38 upvotes
local_stella65
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
37 upvotes
Elijah Walker
as a local I can confirm
34 upvotes
Alexander T.
Bought a house here in 2016 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
34 upvotes
true_violet59
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great Italian places. I love the pace of life here.
28 upvotes
Camila Nelson
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
26 upvotes
dc_ella
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The nightlife is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
25 upvotes
Cooper Turner
Came here for family and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The traffic is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
24 upvotes
Richard E.
couldn't agree more
17 upvotes
Carter Thompson
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great BBQ places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
14 upvotes
oaklandguy2025
facts
12 upvotes
Joseph T.
couldn't agree more
12 upvotes
James Howard
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
8 upvotes
Isabella
I've lived in Riverside for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good airport with direct flights
- The safety scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. It's not for everyone but it works for us..