Crime rate is something to consider -West Point sits at 42.8 per 100K. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $1,600/month for a decent place. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
Pros:
- Good schools
- Close to nature
- Easy commute
Cons:
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Poor road conditions
- Limited cultural events
- Homelessness issues downtown
The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
11 upvotes
10 Replies
Valentina Bailey
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 10 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
39 upvotes
John Sanders
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 13 years. Moved from Baltimore for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. marketing 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:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is tough - 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And safety 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.
30 upvotes
Caroline Richardson
big facts right here
30 upvotes
Nova Gray
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 9 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. tech 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 exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview 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. Urban sprawl is real. Chain restaurants dominate. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
milwaukeewalker2021
Moved here from Nashville about 2 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to safety but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Delilah W.
thanks for sharing
10 upvotes
Jonathan Jimenez
couldn't agree more
9 upvotes
Emily M.
nah I disagree
8 upvotes
Lillian Wilson
nah I disagree
6 upvotes
aaron_native
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 54, moved here 15 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in South and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for families. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Baltimore, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
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