Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a college student here and It's a a small town city with about 23,041 people. The median home value here is around $99,500, which is actually reasonable. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. What are your go-to spots? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
8 upvotes
15 Replies
Jonathan Brooks
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely excellent and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Old Town) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
38 upvotes
Santiago N.
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much manageable but now it's solid.
35 upvotes
Jameson F.
this is the way
33 upvotes
Lucy Clark
not my experience at all
32 upvotes
Leonardo Morgan
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
32 upvotes
Emmett Kelly
I've lived in Riverside for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
- The safety scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for remote workers. Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Gabriella A.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is decent in most areas.
30 upvotes
Nova King
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
happy_silas34
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
23 upvotes
Eleanor Mendoza
thanks for sharing
23 upvotes
John R.
I'm a teacher and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
12 upvotes
Jace F.
100%
10 upvotes
sdwalker2020
Moved here from Baltimore about 2 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to school system but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
6 upvotes
Ellie Martinez
Totally agree!
3 upvotes
Axel Moore
Came here for cost of living and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor recreation is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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