So, Homes are going for about $389,400 on average. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
11 upvotes
18 Replies
Skylar Sanchez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is tough in most areas.
37 upvotes
Mackenzie Thompson
I've lived in Westside for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Affordable housing options
- The job market scene is decent
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Good luck with whatever you decide..
36 upvotes
living_valentina55
accurate
33 upvotes
Amy B.
Public transit is pretty good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
27 upvotes
Adam M.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 10 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
26 upvotes
Lucas Lopez
thanks for sharing
24 upvotes
Grayson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
20 upvotes
Charlotte P.
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
20 upvotes
Ryan Parker
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Lakewood area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
19 upvotes
Eliana R.
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is housing market. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
18 upvotes
Danielle S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 58, moved here 8 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Riverside and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The community vibe situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for remote workers. improving vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 San Francisco, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
16 upvotes
Daniel K.
big facts right here
16 upvotes
Ethan Stewart
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
12 upvotes
Cameron N.
as a local I can confirm
12 upvotes
Jacob C.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
8 upvotes
Aurora Nguyen
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely excellent and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Eastside) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
5 upvotes
Timothy M.
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.