Not sure if this has been asked before, but We're a young couple and Poverty rate is 13.7%, which is around average. Homes are going for about $549,600 on average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to.
8 upvotes
14 Replies
Maverick Long
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Miami about 13 years ago. The main reasons were weather and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Ellie Brown
Saving this thread
40 upvotes
Kai Wright
Came here for family and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The healthcare is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
36 upvotes
Emilia Taylor
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Roy S.
I work in government here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is challenging. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
30 upvotes
Ian H.
Bought a house here in 2023 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
30 upvotes
Elijah Perez
glad someone said it
29 upvotes
Scarlett G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 25, moved here 7 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Lakewood and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The food scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Houston, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
26 upvotes
Aurora Mendoza
nah I disagree
25 upvotes
Genesis Carter
Came here for quality of life and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cultural scene is honestly pretty good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
21 upvotes
Wyatt G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 6 years. Moved from Seattle for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. retail 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 exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are tough. 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. Limited public transit options. Far from beaches/mountains. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, 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.
13 upvotes
Emma Roberts
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 Austin for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. 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 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. consulting 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 was the best decision I ever made. 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 better than expected. 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. Limited public transit options. Can feel isolated. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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