Riverside earned its place in agricultural history as the site of California's first navel orange trees, launching the state's citrus industry. The city is home to the Mission Inn, the nation's largest Mission Revival Style building, and maintains a connection to its agricultural past through attractions like the California Citrus State Historic Park. Rental options include boutique apartment communities in neighborhoods like Canyon Crest and Arlington Heights, as well as single-family homes and townhomes throughout the city's 28 distinct neighborhoods.

Downtown Riverside features a pedestrian-friendly Main Street with specialty shops, the recently renovated Fox Performing Arts Center, and numerous dining options. The city hosts several annual events including the Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn and the Riverside Airshow. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate Mount Rubidoux's hiking trails and the city's 60+ parks. The University of California, Riverside adds cultural richness with its botanical gardens and art galleries, while museums like the Riverside Art Museum and Museum of Riverside showcase local history.

Riverside offers a reasonable commute to major employment centers in Orange and Los Angeles counties via three major freeways (60, 91, and 215) and three Metrolink stations. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,860, with two-bedroom units averaging $2,254. Major local employers include the County of Riverside, University of California Riverside, and Kaiser Permanente. The city experiences a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it ideal for those who prefer sunshine and limited rainfall.