Hey everyone, I'm a teacher here and Homes are going for about $75,700 on average. The median home value here is around $75,700, which is actually reasonable. It's a a smaller city city with about 25,602 people. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Should I be concerned? The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
6 upvotes
18 Replies
Anna Brooks
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely decent and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Uptown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
37 upvotes
Allison B.
I work in tech here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is tough. Feel free to reach out with questions..
35 upvotes
Miles Wilson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 12 years. Moved from San Francisco for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have ski resorts 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 improving. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Chain restaurants dominate. And nightlife 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.
35 upvotes
Dylan Price
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 3 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are established, gas is underrated.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Definitely worth checking out..
34 upvotes
Wesley Nelson
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
28 upvotes
Hudson G.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
27 upvotes
Lucy Foster
+1
27 upvotes
Kennedy Kim
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Pine Hills area are average. Kids love it here.
26 upvotes
Aaliyah Cook
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Seattle about 10 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are stable, gas is excellent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Definitely worth checking out..
25 upvotes
Lily P.
preach
21 upvotes
Riley W.
I've lived in Old Town for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by nightlife. 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 school system scene is solid
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
20 upvotes
Nicholas Bennett
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
18 upvotes
Reagan
Used to live on the West side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
13 upvotes
Cooper Reyes
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Tampa about 4 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is decent.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Audrey Morales
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The nightlife is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
13 upvotes
portland_katherine
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 15 years. Moved from LA for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Far from beaches/mountains. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
Willow Walker
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
9 upvotes
Aiden Garcia
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 12 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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