Anyone else feel this way? We have two kids and The unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. Property taxes are high but you get good services. What do you all think? The weather takes some getting used to.
7 upvotes
8 Replies
Madeline R.
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great Indian places. it exceeded my expectations.
29 upvotes
Benjamin P.
I work in education here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is tough. Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
Dylan Bennett
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely improving and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Downtown) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
28 upvotes
Camila 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 7 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited high-paying job options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Olivia Jones
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
19 upvotes
Mia Peterson
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Lakewood area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Ian Lee
I work in education here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is solid. Definitely worth checking out..
15 upvotes
Ariana Baker
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from San Francisco about 4 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
All Countries
