I'm single, late 20s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Passaic sits at 529.9 per 100K. Rent is about $1,392/month for a decent place. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Has anyone dealt with this? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
28 upvotes
5 Replies
Angel M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Minneapolis about 13 years ago. The main reasons were work and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
coastal_clara80
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Old Town) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
13 upvotes
Bradley B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 10 years. Moved from Dallas for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. 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 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
healthcare 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:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is improving - 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 improving. 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. Winters are long and cold. Homeless population growing downtown. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
8 upvotes
Hunter Thompson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Baltimore about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is solid.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
3 upvotes
Isabelle Richardson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 6 years. Moved from Denver for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2020 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Fairview schools are challenging. 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 high-paying job options. Dating scene is rough. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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