Hey there! Are you thinking about moving to Redding, California? Or maybe you already live here and are wondering if the grass is greener on the other side of the highway? I'm Faith Barrett with Rooted in Reading, and I'm here to help you figure out which side of Redding – the East Side or the West Side – best fits your lifestyle. Redding is a fantastic city, but it's uniquely divided, and that division creates some real differences. Let's explore what each side has to offer!
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Redding: Divided by I-5
Redding is split right down the middle by Interstate 5. It's more than just a road; it's a divider that creates two distinct areas. Each side of town has its own vibe, its own benefits, and its own unique appeal. So, how do you choose? Don't worry, we'll break it down.
West Side: History, Hustle, and the Great Outdoors
The West Side of Redding is known for its history and culture. But there's so much more to it than that! Here are some of the things that make the West Side stand out:
Outdoor Adventures at Your Doorstep
Do you love being active and spending time outside? The West Side has you covered. You'll find hiking and biking trails right outside popular neighborhoods like Lake Redding, Mary Lake, and Sunset Terrace. Imagine stepping out your front door and being on a trail in minutes! Whether you're into a challenging hike or a leisurely bike ride, the West Side makes it easy to connect with nature. Find more information on local trails from the City of Redding's Parks and Recreation Department.
Downtown Living at Its Finest
If you crave the downtown lifestyle, the West Side puts you right in the heart of the action. Restaurants, shopping centers, and bars are all within easy reach. Want a night out on the town? No problem! Everything is right at your fingertips. Plus, essential services like Mercy Medical Center and Shasta Regional Medical Center are also located downtown, providing convenient access to healthcare. Check out some local favorites, like From the Hearth Cafe for breakfast and dinner or Ox Yoke for a quick lunch.
Charming, Character-Rich Neighborhoods
Are you drawn to neighborhoods with character and history? The West Side boasts charming areas like Garden Tract and Magnolia. These neighborhoods offer a unique sense of place with beautiful homes and tree-lined streets. They don't build 'em like they used to!
Water Fun at Whiskeytown Lake
Whiskeytown Lake is super close to the West Side, perfect for those hot summer days! Whether you enjoy water sports or just relaxing on the lake, Whiskeytown has something for everyone. You can go boating, swimming, paddleboarding, or just float and soak up the sun. Learn more about Whiskeytown Lake on the National Park Service website.
East Side: Serenity, Community, and a Slower Pace
Now let's hop over to the East Side. What makes it special? Here's a look:
A Slower, More Relaxed Lifestyle
If you're looking for a more relaxed pace of life, the East Side might be just what you need. It's known for being a little slower, with less traffic and less of that downtown hustle and bustle. If you value peace and quiet, this side of town could be a great fit.
An Educational Hub
The East Side is home to Shasta College and Simpson University. This makes it an ideal location for professors, students, and anyone who values education. Living close to these institutions offers a unique sense of community and access to educational resources. You can visit the Shasta College website and Simpson University website for more details.
Outdoor Activities at a More Relaxed Pace
Just because the East Side is more relaxed doesn't mean you can't enjoy the outdoors! You'll find great trails and preserves like Clover Creek Preserve and Lema Ranch. These areas offer beautiful scenery and opportunities for hiking and exploring at a more leisurely pace. Get more information on Shasta Land Trust.
Convenient Shopping Options
Don't worry, you won't have to go far to do your shopping! The East Side has plenty of shopping centers with popular stores like Trader Joe's and Sprouts. You'll find everything you need right in your neighborhood.
Easy Access to the Airport
If you travel frequently, you'll appreciate the East Side's convenient access to Redding Regional Airport. No more long drives to catch your flight!
Quick Commute to Downtown
Even if you choose to live on the East Side, you can still easily get to downtown Redding via Highway 44. The commute is quick and easy, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
East vs. West: A Quick Look
Here's a quick comparison to help you see the key differences at a glance:
| Feature | West Side | East Side |
|---|---|---|
| Lifestyle | Active, Urban | Relaxed, Suburban |
| Outdoor Access | Hiking, Whiskeytown Lake | Preserves, Slower-Paced Trails |
| Key Locations | Downtown, Hospitals | Colleges, Airport |
| Traffic | Higher | Lower |
Which Side is Right for You?
So, East Side or West Side? The answer really depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Do you crave the energy and excitement of downtown living? Or do you prefer a more peaceful and relaxed environment? Both sides of Redding offer incredible opportunities, whether you're a young professional, a family, or anyone in between.
Ready to Find Your Dream Home in Redding?
If you're ready to make a move, The Barrett Team is here to help! We know Redding inside and out, and we can help you find the perfect home in the neighborhood that's right for you.
Give us a call! (530) 339-1788 or (530) 945-0113
You can also send us an email: [email protected]
Don't forget to sign up for exclusive updates!
Wrapping Up
Thanks for joining me on this tour of Redding's East and West Sides! I hope this has helped you get a better sense of what each area has to offer. Now you can figure out which side is the best fit for you! Subscribe to the Rooted in Reading channel for more insights into our wonderful community!
