Random thought, I grew up here but left for a while. It's a a small town city with about 11,521 people. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. Thanks for reading.
8 upvotes
13 Replies
Madelyn Walker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 6 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. engineering 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:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. Riverside schools are underrated. 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. Nightlife is limited. Chain restaurants dominate. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
charlottesoul2026
I'm a nurse and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
34 upvotes
Jose Cooper
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 7 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
32 upvotes
Levi Foster
it depends on the neighborhood
32 upvotes
Helen P.
big facts right here
30 upvotes
Ezra
I'm a physical therapist and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
Sarah Robinson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 2 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
17 upvotes
Gabriel Phillips
literally same
15 upvotes
Luna T.
Saving this thread
7 upvotes
Alice Jackson
wish I knew this sooner
6 upvotes
Madelyn Evans
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Nashville about 3 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are developing, gas is improving.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
5 upvotes
Maverick W.
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. food scene used to be much manageable but now it's better than expected.
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