Moving from Chicago to Santa Monica next month

Emmett Dec 9, 2025

Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Riverside for 7 years. Moved from San Diego for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.

**Employment:**
retail is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have biking trails 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 improving. 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. Nightlife is limited. Far from beaches/mountains. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.

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