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starting a business in riverside: local regulations & tax info

@Sophia Berg2/7/2026blog

so you wanna start a business in riverside? first off, let me tell you, riverside is not exactly "vibrant" or "nestled" in anything. it's just riverside. but that's what makes it interesting. the city has its own quirks, and if you're thinking about setting up shop here, you better know what you're getting into.

let's start with the basics. riverside is part of riverside county, and that means you'll be dealing with both city and county regulations. the city of riverside has its own business license requirements, and you can find all the details on their official website. but here's the thing: the process can be a bit of a headache. you'll need to fill out forms, pay fees, and maybe even attend a few meetings. it's not the most glamorous part of starting a business, but it's necessary.

now, let's talk taxes. riverside has a sales tax rate of 7.75%, which is pretty standard for california. but here's where it gets interesting: if you're selling tangible goods, you'll also need to register with the california department of tax and fee administration (cdtfa). and trust me, you don't want to mess with the cdtfa. they're like the tax police, and they will come after you if you're not compliant.

but enough about the boring stuff. let's talk about what it's really like to do business in riverside. the city has a growing economy, with a focus on healthcare, education, and manufacturing. the university of california, riverside (ucr) is a major employer, and the city is home to several large healthcare providers. but here's the thing: riverside is also a city of small businesses. from the local coffee shops to the vintage clothing stores, there's a real sense of community here.

and speaking of community, let's talk about the people. riverside is a diverse city, with a mix of cultures and backgrounds. you'll find everything from hipster coffee shops to traditional mexican restaurants. and the best part? it's all within a short drive. los angeles is just an hour away, and san diego is about two hours. so if you ever need a change of scenery, you're covered.

but let's get back to business. if you're thinking about starting a business in riverside, here are a few things to keep in mind:

- *location matters: riverside is a big city, and different neighborhoods have different vibes. do your research and find a location that fits your business.
- network, network, network: riverside has a tight-knit business community. attend local events, join business groups, and get to know your fellow entrepreneurs.
- be prepared for red tape: as i mentioned earlier, the city has its own regulations and requirements. be prepared to jump through some hoops, but don't let it discourage you.

and now, for the fun part. here are a few local spots that you should check out if you're in riverside:

- the mission inn hotel & spa: this historic hotel is a riverside landmark. it's a great place to grab a drink or have a meeting.
- mount rubidoux: if you need a break from the hustle and bustle, take a hike up mount rubidoux. the views are amazing, and it's a great way to clear your head.
- downtown riverside*: this is the heart of the city, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. it's a great place to people-watch and get a feel for the local vibe.

and finally, here's a little insider tip: if you're looking for a place to stay, check out the mission inn hotel & spa on tripadvisor. it's a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the experience.


so there you have it. starting a business in riverside is not for the faint of heart, but it can be incredibly rewarding. just be prepared for a little red tape, a lot of networking, and a whole lot of fun. good luck!

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About the author: Sophia Berg

Exploring the intersection of technology and humanity.

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