LifeCost Blog
Riverside

Riverside

USA

Updated on August 13, 2025

Overview

Riverside is a city located in Riverside County, California, in the metropolitan area known as the Inland Empire. It's famous for its historic architecture, University of California Riverside, and citrus heritage. The city combines modern urban elements with historic charm.

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€650.00
1-bed flat (center)€1,650.00
1-bed flat (outside)€1,350.00
3-bed flat (center)€2,800.00
3-bed flat (outside)€2,200.00

Utilities

Basic utilities€180.00
Internet€65.00
Mobile plan€50.00

Transportation

One-way ticket€2.00
Monthly pass€75.00
Taxi start€3.50
Gasoline (1 l)€4.80

Leisure

Cinema ticket€14.00
Fitness club€45.00

Education

Preschool (month)€1,200.00
Intl. primary (year)€15,000.00

Advantages

  • Lower cost of living than Los Angeles and Orange County
  • Mediterranean climate with over 280 sunny days per year
  • Excellent highway and public transportation connections
  • Rich history and preserved historic architecture
  • Prestigious universities like UC Riverside

Disadvantages

  • × Air quality can be problematic due to smog
  • × Very high temperatures in summer
  • × Car dependency for transportation
  • × Less entertainment diversity than coastal cities
  • × Congested traffic during rush hours