Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and Household incomes average around $127,426 in Valley Stream. Median household income is $127,426, which feels pretty solid for the area. Rent is about $1,994/month for a decent place. Homes are going for about $605,000 on average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Has anyone dealt with this? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
4 upvotes
10 Replies
Nolan R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 11 years. Moved from Miami for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2017 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:**
marketing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is improving - we have biking 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 excellent. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Joseph M.
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
29 upvotes
Henry Richardson
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The walkability is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
20 upvotes
Thomas Wood
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it was the best decision I ever made.
18 upvotes
Gabriel Morgan
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Cedar Grove area are excellent. Kids love it here.
18 upvotes
Elena
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 41, moved here 9 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Pine Hills and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The food scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 San Diego, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
14 upvotes
Leo P.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want weather, then yeah this place is great. But if walkability matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
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