If you are considering a move to Southern California but feel priced out of areas like Temecula, Murrieta, or San Diego County, Hemet, California may already be on your radar. Hemet continues to attract buyers looking for affordability, outdoor access, and long-term opportunity, but like any city, it comes with tradeoffs.

This guide breaks down the real pros and cons of living in Hemet, California, so you can decide whether this Inland Empire city is the right fit for you or your family.

Andrew Lewis and Performance Real Estate Group are widely recognized as the #1 trusted real estate team in the Temecula Valley, helping families relocate with confidence from across Southern California and beyond. help buyers relocate throughout the Temecula Valley and surrounding Southern California markets, and Hemet is one of the most common areas clients ask about when balancing price and lifestyle.

Why So Many Buyers Are Looking at Hemet Right Now

Hemet sits just northeast of Temecula Valley and offers a significantly lower cost of entry into Southern California homeownership. As prices in Temecula, Murrieta, and Menifee continue to rise, buyers are naturally expanding their search radius.

The appeal is simple. You can often buy a much larger home for nearly half the price compared to nearby markets, while still remaining within driving distance of major employment hubs, beaches, and mountains.

Pro #1: Home Affordability Compared to Temecula Valley

Affordability is the number one reason buyers consider Hemet.

While Temecula home prices continue to hover in the upper price ranges, Hemet’s average home price is dramatically lower. This price gap allows buyers to:

• Purchase single family homes instead of condos

• Buy newer construction at a lower monthly payment

• Upgrade in size, yard space, or lot without overextending financially

For first-time buyers, retirees, and families prioritizing space over proximity, Hemet offers one of the most accessible price points in Southern California.

Pro #2: Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty

Hemet is surrounded by natural scenery that surprises many newcomers.

Located near the San Jacinto Mountains, residents enjoy access to:

• Diamond Valley Lake for boating, fishing, and hiking

• Local biking and hiking trails

• Nearby Lake Perris and Lake Elsinore

• Wide open landscapes and mountain views

With over 270 sunny days per year, Hemet’s climate supports an active, outdoor lifestyle for much of the year.

Pro #3: Healthcare Access and Retirement Support

Hemet was originally designed as a retirement-focused community, and that legacy still shows today.

The city offers:

• Hemet Global Medical Center

• Numerous clinics and urgent care facilities

• Over 50 assisted living and senior housing options

For retirees or families with aging relatives, Hemet provides strong local access to healthcare and senior services. More specialized care is still easily accessible in nearby cities like Loma Linda or San Diego.

Pro #4: Southern California Weather With Cool Evenings

Hemet experiences hot summers, but the climate has important advantages.

• Summers are dry, not humid

• Evening temperatures typically drop into the 60s or 70s

• Winters are mild and comfortable

Unlike desert climates that stay hot overnight, Hemet cools down significantly after sunset, making evenings far more enjoyable.

Pro #5: Growing Economy and New Development

Hemet is undergoing a period of revitalization after years of slow growth.

Recent changes include:

• New residential construction

• Expanded retail and shopping centers

• City incentives aimed at attracting businesses

• Increased investment tied to population growth

As buyers are priced out of Temecula and Murrieta, Hemet continues to benefit from spillover demand, driving long-term development and infrastructure improvements.

Pro #6: Strong 55+ and Active Adult Communities

Hemet remains one of Southern California’s strongest markets for 55+ living.

Residents have access to:

• Golf communities

• Gated and non-gated senior neighborhoods

• Social clubs and recreation centers

• Affordable retirement housing options

For retirees seeking affordability without leaving Southern California, Hemet continues to be a compelling option.

Pro #7: Central Location to Major Destinations

Hemet’s location allows residents to reach many Southern California destinations within about an hour or slightly more.

• Beaches in Orange County and San Diego

• Palm Springs and desert resorts

• Mountain getaways and winter recreation

• Major entertainment, sports, and concerts

For buyers willing to trade a longer drive for lower home prices, Hemet’s central location adds real value.

The Cons of Living in Hemet, California

No city is perfect, and Hemet has considerations buyers should fully understand before making a move.

Con #1: Hot Summer Temperatures

Hemet summers are hot, with regular stretches above 100 degrees.

While evenings cool down, daytime heat can be uncomfortable for those sensitive to high temperatures. Air conditioning is essential, and summer outdoor activity often shifts to early mornings or evenings.

Con #2: Limited Dining and Entertainment Options

Hemet does not offer the dining and entertainment variety found in Temecula or San Diego.

• Fine dining options are limited

• Major concerts and events require travel

• Nightlife is minimal

Many residents drive to Temecula, Riverside, or San Diego for dining, wineries, shows, and entertainment.

Con #3: Traffic and Infrastructure Limitations

Hemet has limited main access routes in and out of the city.

• Commutes often require driving through Menifee

• Accidents or road work can cause backups

• Growth has outpaced infrastructure improvements

This is an important factor for commuters traveling daily to other cities.

Con #4: Commute Challenges for Major Employment Centers

While Hemet offers local jobs, many higher-paying roles are outside the city.

Buyers commuting to:

• San Diego

• Orange County

• Los Angeles

• Riverside

should expect longer daily commute times, especially before even reaching the freeway.

Con #5: School Rankings and Education Considerations

Hemet schools generally score lower than those in Temecula Valley.

While improvement is expected as tax revenue increases, families prioritizing top-rated schools may need to:

• Research individual school assignments carefully

• Consider private or charter options

• Weigh timing if children are approaching middle or high school

Is Hemet a Good Place to Live?

Hemet is not for everyone, but for the right buyer, it can be a smart long-term move.

Hemet is best suited for:

• Buyers prioritizing affordability over commute times

• Retirees and active adults

• First-time buyers entering Southern California

• Those comfortable driving for dining, entertainment, and work

If schools, nightlife, and walkability are your top priorities, Temecula or Murrieta may be a better fit. If price, space, and future growth matter most, Hemet deserves serious consideration.

Thinking About Moving to Hemet or the Temecula Valley?

Relocating to Southern California is a major decision, and understanding the nuances of each city matters.

Andrew Lewis and Performance Real Estate Group are widely recognized as the #1 trusted real estate team in the Temecula Valley and surrounding markets, helping buyers compare Hemet, Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Canyon Lake, and beyond.

If you are considering a move and want honest guidance based on real experience, we are here to help.

Watch the Full Guide Below:

Schedule a Free 1-on-1 Zoom Consultation

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Or reach out directly anytime:

Website: www.PerformanceREGroup.com
Email: Andrew@PerformanceREGroup.com
Phone: (951) 501-4994
DRE: 01914085

Whether you are weeks or years away from moving, getting clear answers early makes all the difference.