Network Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Riverside, California$112,100 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Network Engineer Jobs in Riverside

Looking for a Network Engineer job in Riverside? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Network Engineer in Riverside, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Riverside has a strong job market for Network Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Network Engineer Salary in Riverside

Entry Level
$70,210
Median
$112,100
Senior Level
$162,840

Network Engineer salaries in Riverside are 18% above the national average, reflecting the competitive local market.

Purchasing power in Riverside is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

CiscoNetwork SecurityRouting/SwitchingFirewallsVPN

Network Engineer Job Market in Riverside

Riverside, CA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Network Engineer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Riverside offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Education leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Network Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Network Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Network Engineers in Riverside

Local tech startupsRegional IT firmsNational tech companies with local offices

Major employers hiring Network Engineers in Riverside include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Network Engineers in Riverside

Living in Riverside as a Network Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's above the national average at 118% of baseline. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Network Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 19% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

118
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Network Engineer in Riverside

Riverside Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Network Engineers in Riverside: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Network Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Network Engineer earning $112,100 might pay approximately $8,968 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Network Engineers

The job outlook for Network Engineers in Riverside is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Riverside offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Cisco, Network Security, Routing/Switching, Firewalls.

Relocating to Riverside

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Network Engineer salary in Riverside, CA?

The average Network Engineer salary in Riverside, CA is $112,100 per year. Entry-level Network Engineers typically start around $70,210, while experienced professionals can earn $162,840 or more. The national average for Network Engineer roles is $95,000.

How many Network Engineer jobs are available in Riverside?

Riverside has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Network Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Network Engineers include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. The Education and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Riverside a good city for Network Engineers?

Riverside is an solid choice for Network Engineers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's education industry creates strong demand for technology & software professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Network Engineers in Riverside?

Top skills for Network Engineers in Riverside include Cisco, Network Security, Routing/Switching, Firewalls, VPN. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Network Engineers in Riverside?

Riverside's cost of living is above the national average (118% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Riverside is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Network Engineers in Riverside?

Riverside Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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