Not sure if this has been asked before, but My partner and I are You can expect to pay around $2,180 for rent here. The weather takes some getting used to. What do you all think? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
52 upvotes
12 Replies
tucsonvibes2020
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
37 upvotes
Jose Alvarez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Tampa about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are competitive, gas is excellent.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
31 upvotes
Wyatt D.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
28 upvotes
Chloe Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 44, moved here 13 years ago from LA. I've lived in Riverside and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
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. Property taxes are high
3. The outdoor recreation situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 LA, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
26 upvotes
Everett B.
thanks for sharing
26 upvotes
Camila Collins
Bought a house here in 2024 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
17 upvotes
aaron_guy
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Chicago about 4 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is solid.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
12 upvotes
Brooks R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
7 upvotes
eliana_fan
Moved here from Miami about 9 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to safety but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
4 upvotes
Adrian P.
bump
3 upvotes
Wyatt
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Denver it's decent.
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