So, We're a young couple and The unemployment rate is 6.8%, which is concerning. Household incomes average around $40,094 in Biola. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What neighborhoods would you suggest? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
10 upvotes
9 Replies
Christian Ramos
I'm a chef and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
29 upvotes
Xavier Reyes
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Chicago about 12 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are established, gas is tough.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Everly Hernandez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 13 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
23 upvotes
Madelyn Reyes
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
21 upvotes
Waylon Thompson
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
17 upvotes
Wyatt Roberts
Totally agree!
16 upvotes
Eliana Mitchell
hmm interesting perspective
13 upvotes
Amelia L.
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor recreation is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..