After living in Riverside for a few years, I've noticed that some people thrive here while others feel frustrated.

Having lived in Riverside for several years, I can now see what type of person fits well in this neighborhood and who might want to pack up and leave after just a few months.

A city isn't inherently good or bad; it completely depends on what you value.

First, there's Type A. This is a family that wants to reduce their housing costs as much as possible. People moving from LA or Orange County to Riverside don't do so without reason. When comparing the same amount of money, the size of the homes is different. In LA, you might be able to afford a small condo or an older house, but here, you're likely to find a house with at least one more room. For a family with two kids and two cars, this difference in space is more significant than you might think.

Some families move here for their children's education. UC Riverside is right here, after all. Of course, living in Riverside doesn't guarantee admission to UCR, but having a UC campus nearby creates a certain atmosphere for the kids. For graduate students or researchers at UCR, it's even more appealing. The university is known for its research in agriculture, life sciences, and environmental studies, and compared to living near schools in LA or Berkeley, there's potential for lower housing costs.

Nature lovers also fit into Type A. Mount Rubidoux is great for hiking, and Box Springs Mountain is nearby. If you venture a bit further, you can reach the San Bernardino mountains, making it a perfect spot for families who enjoy camping or hiking on weekends. There are also plenty of options for golf enthusiasts, as is typical in Southern California.

For retirees, it can also be a good fit depending on their preferences. Winters are mild, and housing costs are lower than in central LA. There are hospitals and basic living infrastructure available. If you prefer a comfortable life at home with occasional dining out and leisurely walks, it's not a bad choice.

However, Type B is also very real. First of all, it's quite inconvenient for those who dislike driving. While public transportation does exist, this is a car-centric city, so for grocery shopping, doctor visits, and dining out, having a car is much more convenient. If you're used to walking everywhere like in Seoul or New York, you might find it frustrating.

Additionally, those who love the LA lifestyle should think twice. If you value late-night dining, attending shows, and discovering new shops, Riverside might feel dull. The Korean community here isn't as densely packed as in LA, and while it may seem nice and quiet at first, some people find themselves saying after a few months, "There's nowhere to go!"

And I must mention summer. It gets hot. Not just a little hot, but there are days in the summer when temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. On some afternoons, stepping outside can feel like a blast of hot air hitting your face. If you're sensitive to heat, you'll need to consider your summer electricity bills. I wouldn't recommend trying to tough it out without air conditioning.

Ultimately, it seems that the people who fit best in Riverside are those who value practicality. If you prefer a larger home over the glamour of an LA address, want to save a bit more rather than spend on expensive dining, and enjoy going to the mountains instead of shopping malls on weekends, it can be quite a good fit.

On the other hand, if you want to walk everywhere without a car, enjoy discovering new restaurants and cultural activities every day, and dislike the summer heat, there's really no reason to choose Riverside. It's not a city that dazzles you; rather, it's a place that becomes endearing because it's comfortable to live in. That's about the right way to think of it.