Been meaning to ask this. The unemployment rate is 7.0%, which is concerning. Rent is about $1,264/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. Is this normal for Elmendorf? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
15 upvotes
13 Replies
Rylee
I'm a real estate agent and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
Stella
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Nicholas Mendoza
I've lived in Riverside for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- The walkability scene is improving
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Levi Gray
as a local I can confirm
33 upvotes
Camila
exactly what I was thinking
33 upvotes
Addison Clark
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The traffic is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Nolan R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 13 years. Moved from Austin for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. construction 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are pretty good. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited entertainment options. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
audrey_walker
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
25 upvotes
olivia_native
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 10 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have lakes 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. Winters are long and cold. Property taxes are high. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Maya H.
I'm a nurse and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
13 upvotes
Daniel Edwards
honestly same experience here
12 upvotes
Sadie Richardson
yeah no that's not right
4 upvotes
Liam G.
Came here for work and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The food scene is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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