OK so Worth the trade-offs? The suburbs are where most families end up.
13 upvotes
12 Replies
Barbara K.
Came here for weather and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The traffic is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
40 upvotes
Aria
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
36 upvotes
Peyton C.
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much wild but now it's improving.
36 upvotes
Russell K.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
34 upvotes
Joshua Scott
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. safety used to be much stable but now it's hit or miss.
30 upvotes
Evelyn B.
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 Austin for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Olivia Hall
Moved here from Houston about 1 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to food scene but Happy to answer more specific questions..
24 upvotes
Austin Wilson
Came here for retirement and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The outdoor recreation is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
19 upvotes
Lawrence N.
I work in tech here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is tough. Hope this helps!.
18 upvotes
Mackenzie Evans
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is improving in most areas.
14 upvotes
Levi P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 27, moved here 1 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Eastside and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Affordable housing options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The public transit situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Diego, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
4 upvotes
Michael
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Baltimore about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Would recommend to anyone considering it..