First post here. Born and raised here. The median home value here is around $375,300, which seems about average. Homes are going for about $375,300 on average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. What do you all think? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
41 upvotes
27 Replies
Adam
couldn't agree more
39 upvotes
Ellie
same here
38 upvotes
Camila C.
interesting, hadn't considered that
34 upvotes
Emilia Ross
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much growing but now it's average.
33 upvotes
Amelia Phillips
I've lived in Riverside for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The cost of living scene is tough
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
32 upvotes
Ruby Peterson
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The weather is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Jack C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is underrated in most areas.
30 upvotes
Aria
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
30 upvotes
Brielle Thompson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is tough in most areas.
26 upvotes
Isaiah T.
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Naomi C.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
Aaron
I work in finance here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is hit or miss. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Violet T.
I work in tech here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is pretty good. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Axel Cooper
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
16 upvotes
Amelia B.
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it exceeded my expectations.
14 upvotes
Josiah R.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
14 upvotes
dc_christian
not my experience at all
14 upvotes
Luca
bump
12 upvotes
Matthew W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 13 years. Moved from LA for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown 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. Limited high-paying job options. Chain restaurants dominate. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
Melanie P.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The job market is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
11 upvotes
Caroline Mendoza
Saving this thread
11 upvotes
Josiah
not my experience at all
10 upvotes
Caleb Robinson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is solid in most areas.
8 upvotes
Thomas W.
same here
7 upvotes
Carson Stewart
accurate
7 upvotes
Austin Patel
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely challenging and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (North) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
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.
All Countries
