First post here. My partner and I are Poverty rate is 5.4%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,701 for rent here. The city has invested a lot in new development. Am I overthinking this? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
0 upvotes
14 Replies
Cora Jackson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely decent and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Springfield) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
38 upvotes
brooks_girl
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 5 years. Moved from Denver for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
government is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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 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. Urban sprawl is real. Not very walkable outside downtown. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
kc_avery
Can confirm, been here 9 years.
34 upvotes
Gabriel Ortiz
Moved here from San Francisco about 7 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to food scene but Hope this helps!.
32 upvotes
Angel Wilson
noted, appreciate it
24 upvotes
Dylan R.
hard disagree but ok
24 upvotes
Piper R.
lol so true
24 upvotes
Grace T.
Moved here from Austin about 4 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to food scene but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
23 upvotes
Levi Lee
I've lived in Downtown for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
- The community vibe scene is tough
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Rising rent and home prices
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
23 upvotes
Harper Perez
I've lived in Midtown for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
- The weather scene is improving
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. No regrets on my end..
15 upvotes
Wyatt Edwards
Moved here from Phoenix about 4 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to nightlife but No regrets on my end..
13 upvotes
Alice
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to New York it's hit or miss.
10 upvotes
Paisley Hill
Came here for work and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The pet-friendliness is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
5 upvotes
desert_ella26
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great BBQ places. I love the pace of life here.
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