Riverlakes Ranch is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes throughout the community.
Many homes have the characteristics commonly associated with newer Bakersfield suburban construction, including stucco exteriors, tile or composition roofing, attached garages, landscaped yards, and larger family-oriented floor plans. Some properties are positioned near the lake or community open spaces, while others are located along the neighborhood's interior streets.
The City of Bakersfield's housing planning documents identify Riverlakes Ranch as part of northwest Bakersfield's residential and commercial area, alongside nearby shopping and business development.
Because many homes include multiple major appliances, appliance problems can quickly affect everyday routines. A refrigerator, range, dishwasher, washer, or dryer may be used several times a day, making a malfunction particularly inconvenient.