My partner and I are Average temperature is around 47--F, so expect cold winters. Poverty rate is 2.7%, which is pretty low. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Appreciate any input. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
9 upvotes
8 Replies
Paul W.
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 Nashville for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. hospitality 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:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is average - 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 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Dating scene is rough. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Julia Scott
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is underrated in most areas.
30 upvotes
Aubrey
following this thread
26 upvotes
Isabelle G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 13 years. Moved from LA for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2024 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is solid - we have hiking 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 hit or miss. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Winters are long and cold. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Claire Smith
good to know, thanks
17 upvotes
Hailey Howard
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 55, moved here 6 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The community vibe situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Miami, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
4 upvotes
portland_caroline
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
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