So, I work in manufacturing and It's not perfect, but the community is solid. What are your go-to spots?
3 upvotes
13 Replies
Colton Kelly
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Dallas and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Downtown. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Indian.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
Christian Bennett
same here
32 upvotes
sacramentogirl2026
hmm interesting perspective
31 upvotes
Jean S.
100%
31 upvotes
oaklandgirl2022
Came here for weather and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The housing market is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
30 upvotes
Valentina Baker
I'm a chef and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
30 upvotes
Arianna L.
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
Ashley M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely solid and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
19 upvotes
Cameron Chavez
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's hit or miss.
15 upvotes
portlandvibes2023
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 Dallas for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2018 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. marketing 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:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is improving - 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 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. Property taxes are high. Far from beaches/mountains. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
14 upvotes
Savannah Baker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 32, moved here 5 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Can feel isolated
3. The nightlife situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
13 upvotes
Riley
Used to live on the East side, now on the Eastside side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
6 upvotes
Maverick Taylor
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. safety used to be much manageable but now it's decent.