Hey folks, I'm a remote worker and Homes are going for about $652,000 on average. Has anyone dealt with this?
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Adam Hernandez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
37 upvotes
Elijah S.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 2 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
36 upvotes
Emily Martinez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 3 years. Moved from Raleigh for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Downtown 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Bugs and humidity in summer. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Jeremiah Clark
honestly same experience here
30 upvotes
Ellie Hughes
as a local I can confirm
29 upvotes
Aaron Cox
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The housing market is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
21 upvotes
Hudson R.
following this thread
19 upvotes
Sophia R.
I've lived in Riverside for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The nightlife scene is decent
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Caroline Lee
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Definitely worth checking out..
9 upvotes
Jayden Parker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 39, moved here 8 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in West and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cultural scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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
Lillian Watson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 2 years. Moved from Houston for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. finance 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:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is improving - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood 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. Nightlife is limited. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.