Why Should I move to Riverside,CA?

🌞 Why Moving to Riverside This Summer Is a Smart—and Surprisingly Fun—Choice

As a proud Riverside residentr, I often hear folks from L.A. say, “Isn’t Riverside just hot, quiet. and boring?”  Trust me, I know. I used to be one of those people. But if you're considering a move this summer, let me show you why Riverside is not just a more affordable place to live, it’s a vibrant, scenic, and culturally rich city that’s anything but boring.

🏡 More Home for Your Money

Let’s start with the numbers. The median home price in Riverside is around $640,000, with homes typically offering more space and larger lots than what you’d find in L.A. for the same price.  There are so many programs availble for first time homebuyers that buying here in Riverside may be easier than you think. In contrast, Los Angeles homes often exceed $900,000 and come with less square footage and outdoor space. Whether you’re a growing family or just tired of cramped city living, Riverside gives you room to breathe and maybe even a pool.

🌄 Nature at Your Doorstep

Riverside is nestled between the mountains and the coast, offering quick access to both.  You can hike up Mount Rubidoux for panoramic views and a dose of local history. It’s a favorite spot for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. If you’re craving the beach, Newport and Huntington are just over an hour away. Prefer the mountains? Big Bear and Idyllwild are perfect for weekend getaways, offering hiking, camping, and snow in the winter. My family and I enjoy going up to Lake Arrowhead for dinner and a walk around the lake. (Going to dinner in LA can take an hour to drive 5 miles. Might as well enjoy some nature if you're going to be in the car that long) 

🎉 Summer Events & Social Life

Think Riverside is sleepy? Think again. This summer, the city is buzzing with events, markets, night clubs and some great brunch spots:

• Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival: Held annually in nearby Indio, this 13-day festival celebrates the region's date harvest with concerts, food, and family fun.

• Fourth of July Fireworks: Catch the city’s premier fireworks show launched from the top of Mount Rubidoux; a tradition that brings the community together.

• Downtown Riverside Art Walk: On the first Thursday of every month, local artists showcase their work, and the streets come alive with music and food.

• Summer Concerts in the Park: Enjoy free live music under the stars at various parks throughout the city.

🆕 New Attractions & Community Vibes

Riverside is continually growing and adding new attractions:

• The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture: A new addition to the Riverside Art Museum, this center celebrates Chicano art and culture.

• Local Breweries and Eateries: The craft beer scene is thriving, with new breweries and gastropubs popping up, offering a taste of local flavor.

• Community Markets: Weekly farmers' markets and street fairs provide fresh produce, artisan goods, and a chance to mingle with neighbors.

There is always something going on here in Riverside. I used to think that it would be so boring here but there really is a large sense of community here if you step outside. Instagram is a great resource for finding local events and meetups. We also have a couple run clubs that draw the crowds!

🚗 Easy Access Without the Gridlock

While L.A. traffic is legendary (and not in a good way), Riverside offers a more relaxed pace. Major freeways like the 91 and 60 connect you to surrounding areas, and the Metrolink train provides a stress-free commute to L.A. if needed. (for cheap)

🌟 YA- you should move here

Moving to Riverside this summer means embracing a community that values space, culture, and connection. It's a place where you can enjoy the perks of Southern California living without the downsides of big city congestion and sky high prices. So, if you're looking for a fresh start with plenty to do and room to grow, Riverside welcomes you with open arms.

If you read this blog post, you are probably considering making a move to the Inland Empire. Riverside has been a great place to live and my family has been enjoying it here. Let's connect and see how we can make that move happen for you. Because affordability is priority #1 for many people I've met with. #2 neighborhood. I can show you both. 

Brianna Porter-Hoops

02002571 Realtor 

REAL Broker

Seerving the Inland Empire & North Orange County