The unemployment rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,073 for rent here. The median home value here is around $147,100, which is actually reasonable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Any advice would be great. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
51 upvotes
7 Replies
Aurora
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 10 years. Moved from New York for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. engineering 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's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have state parks 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 average. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Limited shopping options. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Ruth J.
Moved here from Charlotte about 15 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to healthcare but Happy to answer more specific questions..
33 upvotes
Brielle J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from San Diego about 15 years ago. The main reasons were work and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are wild, gas is solid.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Happy to answer more specific questions..
27 upvotes
Stella C.
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is housing market. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
14 upvotes
John Gonzalez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 4 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
4 upvotes
Riley Diaz
Bought a house here in 2021 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone about the same since then.
4 upvotes
Emily C.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to San Francisco it's pretty good.
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