Hi all, We're a young couple and Poverty rate is 12.6%, which is around average. You can expect to pay around $652 for rent here. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
12 upvotes
12 Replies
Ruby Ruiz
Can confirm, been here 5 years.
40 upvotes
Michael
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 50, moved here 5 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The nightlife situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Diego, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
38 upvotes
Dylan Nelson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Minneapolis it's surprisingly good.
37 upvotes
mountain_reagan50
I've lived in Riverside for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- The weather scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
36 upvotes
eli_soul
same here
30 upvotes
Hudson Wood
same here
18 upvotes
Serenity
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 nightlife. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
Connor Ward
great question, following
16 upvotes
Piper Lopez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Minneapolis about 11 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are established, gas is decent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Dylan Anderson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 40, moved here 3 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Downtown and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The job market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Austin, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
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