Not sure if this has been asked before, but I relocated for work and Household incomes average around $56,861 in Bryan. Poverty rate is 16.5%, which is higher than I expected. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Bryan sits at 427.1 per 100K. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Worth the trade-offs? Any help is appreciated. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
19 upvotes
6 Replies
Emilia Patel
Can confirm, been here 2 years.
31 upvotes
raleigh_aria
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in North. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in construction. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Wyatt Ward
not my experience at all
11 upvotes
columbuswalker2021
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 3 years. Moved from Houston for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
tech is strong here. manufacturing 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 genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. Riverside schools are pretty good. 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. Dating scene is rough. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
8 upvotes
Rylee Wright
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
7 upvotes
Andrew
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is tough in most areas.
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