So, You can expect to pay around $3,501 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 0.2%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $2,000,001, which is pretty steep. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. What would you do? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
8 upvotes
3 Replies
Theodore Robinson
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
23 upvotes
Melanie Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 52, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Riverside and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The cultural scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 San Diego, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K 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.
21 upvotes
Theodore Lopez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Seattle about 5 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are stable, gas is solid.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. It's not for everyone but it works for us..