Random thought, Average temperature is around 68--F, so the weather is moderate. It's a a small town city with about 19,121 people. Rent is about $876/month for a decent place. Median household income is $35,331, which feels on the lower side for the area. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
Pros:
- Good job market
- Low taxes
- Good healthcare facilities
- Walkable downtown
- Good airport connections
Cons:
- Hot summers
- Limited nightlife
- Not very walkable
- Mosquitoes and humidity
What neighborhoods would you suggest? Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
3 upvotes
13 Replies
Willie T.
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
40 upvotes
Ryan Campbell
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
34 upvotes
Jacob
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 4 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
30 upvotes
caroline_mind
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely excellent and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
29 upvotes
Brooklyn Robinson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
24 upvotes
Nevaeh R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 37, moved here 14 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Pine Hills and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Dallas, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
24 upvotes
maverick_chef
facts
21 upvotes
Adam Hall
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Dallas and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in East. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in engineering. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
Avery J.
I've lived in Riverside for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- The cultural scene scene is tough
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
boston_eva
nah I disagree
9 upvotes
Nevaeh Smith
hard disagree but ok
7 upvotes
Hailey W.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
1 upvotes
Samuel Brown
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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