In Southern California’s Inland Empire, Riverside is a vibrant city that blends urban energy with suburban charm. Riverside’s rich cultural heritage and diverse recreational opportunities attract residents seeking a balanced lifestyle. But is Riverside a great place to live? In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Riverside to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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quick facts about riverside
| Median home sales price | $635,000 |
| average monthly rent | $2,250 |
| walk score | 43/100 |
| traffic score | 30/100 |
| bike score | 49/100 |
1. Advantages: Beautiful riverside scenery
Riverside is known for its stunning natural beauty, including picturesque views of the Santa Ana River and surrounding mountains. The city has several parks and green spaces, such as the scenic Mount Rubidoux Park, which offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the city. In addition, lush landscaping and well-maintained gardens, such as those at the historic Mission Inn, provide residents with a tranquil and visually appealing environment.
2. Disadvantages: hot summer
One of the disadvantages of living on the river is the extremely hot weather in the summer. Temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe. Heat waves can also lead to higher energy bills as residents rely heavily on air conditioners to stay cool.
3. Advantages: Close to the airport
Riverside benefits from its proximity to several major airports, making travel easy for residents. Just a short drive from Ontario International Airport and with easy access to Los Angeles International Airport and John Wayne Airport, flights in and out of the area are easy. This convenience simplifies domestic and international travel, enhancing the overall appeal of riverside living.
4. Disadvantages: Peak hours
The city’s population growth has led to increased vehicle traffic, resulting in delays and longer commute times. Major highways such as the 91 and 215 highways experience frequent traffic jams, making daily travel a frustrating experience for many residents. This congestion reduces the overall quality of life in the city.
5. Pros: Opportunity to play golf
Riverside offers numerous golfing opportunities, making it a paradise for golfers. The city is home to several top courses, including the historic Victoria Club and the scenic Oak Quarry Golf Club. These facilities provide residents with an excellent place to enjoy sports and enhance the appeal of the riverside for golf enthusiasts.
6. Disadvantages: Air pollutants and pollen
Since Riverside is located in the Inland Empire, which is prone to smog and pollution, air quality can be a concern. Vehicle emissions and industrial activity combine to contribute to poor air quality, especially during the summer. This can pose health risks, especially for people with respiratory illnesses.
7. Pros: Lively music scene
Riverside has a lively music scene, offering residents a variety of live performances and events. The historic Fox Performing Arts Center and Riverside Civic Auditorium host regular concerts featuring local talent and renowned artists. This vibrant music scene enriches the city’s cultural fabric, making it an exciting home for music lovers.
8. Disadvantages: Limited public transportation
While Riverside Transit Agency provides bus service, it has a transit score of 30, which means routes and schedules may not suit all residents. This makes it difficult for those without a private car to efficiently navigate the city. Limited public transportation infrastructure can cause significant inconvenience to some residents.
9. Advantages: Outdoor activities
The riverfront is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering an abundance of recreational activities. The city is home to picturesque Mount Rubidoux, ideal for hiking and panoramic views, as well as Fairmount Park, which features scenic trails, a fishing lake, and picnic areas. Additionally, the nearby Santa Ana River Trail offers plenty of biking and jogging opportunities, making Riverside an ideal place to live.
10. Disadvantages: High cost of living
The cost of living in Riverside is relatively high, especially housing costs. The median home sales price is $635,000 and the average monthly rent is $2,250, both of which are growing steadily, making it difficult for some residents to find affordable housing. In addition, the overall cost of goods and services may be higher, putting a financial strain on those considering moving to Riverside.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Red Fin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.
