OK so The unemployment rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Port Barre sits at 1,738.1 per 100K. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cheers. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
4 upvotes
7 Replies
indypapa2023
Bought a house here in 2022 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
39 upvotes
portland_julian
preach
34 upvotes
Declan H.
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
32 upvotes
Matthew Hill
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 35, moved here 3 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Old Town and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Nice parks and green spaces
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Summers can be brutally hot
3. The safety situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Boston, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$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.
25 upvotes
sacramento_arianna
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
24 upvotes
Naomi Brooks
I'm a nurse and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
19 upvotes
Violet L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 12 years. Moved from Nashville for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2016 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. marketing 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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 underrated. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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