Longtime lurker here, Rent is about $1,026/month for a decent place. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
53 upvotes
3 Replies
fresno_cooper
I work in marketing here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is tough. No regrets on my end..
30 upvotes
Wayne W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 15 years. Moved from San Francisco for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is solid - 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 decent. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Limited shopping options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.