Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a college student here and The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Is this normal for Socorro? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
22 upvotes
13 Replies
sacramento_carter
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Raleigh about 10 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are established, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
39 upvotes
Willow Parker
This.
39 upvotes
Gabriella Taylor
glad someone said it
38 upvotes
Naomi
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 15 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Genesis Myers
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
37 upvotes
Robert S.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 10 years. Moved from Seattle for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 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:**
retail is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is average - 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Road conditions need improvement. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Eli H.
+1
28 upvotes
Leah Mendoza
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Baltimore about 6 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are stable, gas is average.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
15 upvotes
Easton M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is average in most areas.
13 upvotes
Arianna P.
I'm a sales manager and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
11 upvotes
Natalie B.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Dallas about 11 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are stable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
8 upvotes
Nathan A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 41, moved here 10 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Lakewood and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Close to major attractions
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for families. tough vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Raleigh, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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
Everly
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Baltimore about 11 years ago. The main reasons were work and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is excellent.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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