Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and With a population of 11,011, Franklin Lakes is a small town. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
6 upvotes
2 Replies
Hannah P.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Lillian Hughes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 15 years. Moved from Portland for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2021 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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 tough. 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. Property taxes are high. Road conditions need improvement. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.