Anyone else feel this way? Median household income is $84,424, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Anyone in a similar situation? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Josiah Turner
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Oak Park. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in marketing. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like sushi.
No regrets on my end..
39 upvotes
Willow Ruiz
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely hit or miss and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (West) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
33 upvotes
Lily Edwards
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
30 upvotes
Isaac Ramirez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Springfield) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Can feel isolated.
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.
29 upvotes
Alice A.
same here
26 upvotes
Brenda R.
Used to live on the Midtown side, now on the Uptown side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
25 upvotes
Kenneth R.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
24 upvotes
Greyson T.
Came here for school and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The healthcare is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
23 upvotes
Everly D.
This.
22 upvotes
Grace Ward
Totally agree!
17 upvotes
Brooks Moore
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 11 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have biking trails 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Can feel isolated. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Avery King
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is tough in most areas.
15 upvotes
Anna
wish I knew this sooner
14 upvotes
Nora R.
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
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