Curious what people think. Been living here since 2019. Homes are going for about $274,900 on average. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Does this match your experience? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
11 upvotes
4 Replies
Shirley G.
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
40 upvotes
Eliana Ortiz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 12 years. Moved from Baltimore for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2024 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. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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 average. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Far from beaches/mountains. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Emma
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Uptown area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.