So, I'm originally from Pittsburgh and Crime rate is something to consider -Tobaccoville sits at 318.5 per 100K. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Anyone in a similar situation? The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
10 upvotes
9 Replies
Ruby Myers
Can confirm, been here 6 years.
39 upvotes
Michael M.
spot on
28 upvotes
Mateo M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
22 upvotes
Kayla M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Uptown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Can feel isolated.
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.
21 upvotes
Isla Hill
this is the way
14 upvotes
Parker Cooper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 6 years. Moved from New York for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2020 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is decent - we have state parks 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 decent. 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. Property taxes are high. Far from beaches/mountains. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Sophia Baker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely average and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Fairview) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
2 upvotes
Genesis Carter
not my experience at all
1 upvotes
Theodore Cooper
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Springfield. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in construction. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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