The median home value here is around $130,500, which is actually reasonable. The unemployment rate is 1.4%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Valley sits at 767.8 per 100K. Median household income is $55,422, which feels about average for the area. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Thanks! It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
1 upvotes
9 Replies
Nicholas Morgan
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 9 years. Moved from Dallas for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. education 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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 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. Road conditions need improvement. Limited entertainment options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Samuel
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
32 upvotes
Sophie Stewart
bump
27 upvotes
Matthew Evans
big facts right here
23 upvotes
mesamind2025
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cultural scene is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
18 upvotes
Leonardo Reyes
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
17 upvotes
Everly Sanchez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 15 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good airport with direct flights
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are stable, gas is tough.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Jacob B.
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Aria
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
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