So, I'm a teacher here and The unemployment rate is 4.7%, which is about average. The weather takes some getting used to. Has anyone dealt with this? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development.
1 upvotes
12 Replies
Cora
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 4 years. Moved from Dallas for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2019 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have beaches 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 pretty good. 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. Dating scene is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Isabella Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 49, moved here 3 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The job market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for families. challenging 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 decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K 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.
37 upvotes
Miles Walker
interesting, hadn't considered that
37 upvotes
Emma M.
I work in manufacturing here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Happy to answer more specific questions..
36 upvotes
Cora Kim
thanks for sharing
32 upvotes
Ariana Morris
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Atlanta about 9 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is tough.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
23 upvotes
Evan Hernandez
haha yep pretty much
21 upvotes
Wyatt Long
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Phoenix it's excellent.
13 upvotes
Axel D.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Baltimore it's improving.
6 upvotes
Madelyn Stewart
honestly same experience here
5 upvotes
Stella M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
All Countries
