Longtime lurker here, Average temperature is around 55--F, so expect cold winters. Median household income is $58,490, which feels about average for the area. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Worth the trade-offs? Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
20 upvotes
11 Replies
Roman B.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is tough in most areas.
36 upvotes
Sofia Parker
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to Nashville it's challenging.
35 upvotes
Cooper J.
wish I knew this sooner
24 upvotes
philly_landon
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Joseph
lol so true
19 upvotes
Kai Adams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 32, moved here 14 years ago from Denver. I've lived in East and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Affordable housing options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The community vibe situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for remote workers. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Denver, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
18 upvotes
Benjamin
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 6 years. Moved from Dallas for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Riverside 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Nightlife is limited. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Abigail Rodriguez
couldn't agree more
13 upvotes
Isaiah
as a local I can confirm
9 upvotes
Roger W.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely decent and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Uptown) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
5 upvotes
Ryan Flores
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is cultural scene. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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