Longtime lurker here, It's a a small town city with about 10,121 people. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Let me know your thoughts. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
2 upvotes
8 Replies
Everly
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely decent and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Sunset) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
34 upvotes
Colton Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 53, moved here 12 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Lakewood and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The dating scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Seattle, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$100K 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.
33 upvotes
Parker
hmm interesting perspective
32 upvotes
Natalie White
Moved here from San Francisco about 4 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to outdoor recreation but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Thomas Young
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 9 years. Moved from Atlanta for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. 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 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. finance 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:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - we have beaches 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 excellent. 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. Limited public transit options. Limited entertainment options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Benjamin Rodriguez
seconding this
23 upvotes
Jose Chavez
as a local I can confirm
10 upvotes
Madeline Lee
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
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