So, Homes are going for about $926,700 on average. The unemployment rate is 1.4%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $184,720, which feels pretty solid for the area. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Does this match your experience? The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
15 upvotes
13 Replies
Kayden T.
100%
38 upvotes
Camila Gonzalez
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Riverside area are average. Kids love it here.
31 upvotes
Ariana Gomez
Moved here from San Francisco about 15 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to food scene but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
30 upvotes
melanie_walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 57, moved here 7 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in North and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Nashville, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$80K 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.
30 upvotes
Ella
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in North area are excellent. Kids love it here.
27 upvotes
Autumn K.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Eliana Young
spot on
21 upvotes
Caroline Ramirez
I've lived in South for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Lots of new development happening
- The cost of living scene is decent
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
20 upvotes
Xavier Parker
seconding this
14 upvotes
Cora Smith
Moved here from Minneapolis about 2 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to nightlife but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
Leah Sanchez
thanks for sharing
9 upvotes
delilah_native
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 40, moved here 11 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Oak Park and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Growing food and restaurant scene
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The weather situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Nashville, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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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