So, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 10.6%, which is around average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Does this match your experience? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
24 upvotes
8 Replies
Lillian Hughes
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
33 upvotes
Ruby Collins
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is school system. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
22 upvotes
Carter Lopez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 13 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Leo Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 4 years. Moved from Dallas for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. construction 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 wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have biking trails 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 hit or miss. 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. Winters are long and cold. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
Samuel W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 13 years. Moved from Austin for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Old Town schools are solid. 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 nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
8 upvotes
Matthew N.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 44, moved here 12 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Old Town and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The nightlife situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 Houston, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$150K 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.
2 upvotes
Jameson Chavez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is excellent in most areas.
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