Been meaning to ask this. I'm retired and Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Worth the trade-offs? Looking forward to hearing from you all. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
15 upvotes
15 Replies
Brooklyn S.
I've lived in East for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
- The public transit scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for singles. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
39 upvotes
Bennett Bennett
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is excellent in most areas.
38 upvotes
Nancy L.
couldn't agree more
36 upvotes
Ryan C.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Dallas it's solid.
35 upvotes
Kimberly W.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
Henry Patel
Moved here from Chicago about 14 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to walkability but No regrets on my end..
35 upvotes
Isla Diaz
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 1 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Mackenzie
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Evan Hughes
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much established but now it's decent.
24 upvotes
Cooper
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is decent in most areas.
22 upvotes
Scarlett Stewart
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
20 upvotes
Leonardo P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 2 years. Moved from Boston for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2018 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. marketing 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 love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Riverside schools are surprisingly good. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited entertainment options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Ezra M.
following this thread
7 upvotes
Jordan Adams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 42, moved here 13 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Greenfield and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The safety situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Francisco, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
2 upvotes
Gabriel Baker
Came here for school and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The community vibe is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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