If you are thinking about moving to Hemet, California, you are not alone. Buyers and retirees from all over Southern California and across the country are discovering Hemet as one of the most affordable ways to own a home while still staying connected to the Temecula Valley and Inland Empire. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about living in Hemet, including home prices, cost of living, schools, jobs, safety, healthcare, and what daily life is really like.

Andrew Lewis and Performance Real Estate Group are the #1 trusted real estate team in the Temecula Valley and surrounding markets, and we help buyers evaluate whether Hemet is the right fit based on real lifestyle factors, not hype.

Where Is Hemet Located?

Hemet is located in Riverside County, just east of Winchester and south of San Jacinto. It sits about 20 to 25 minutes from Temecula and provides access to the I-215 freeway via Domenigoni Parkway and Highway 79. While Hemet is not freeway-adjacent, it remains a popular choice for buyers who value affordability over immediate freeway access.

Pros and Cons of Living in Hemet

What People Love About Hemet

Affordability is the number one reason people choose Hemet. Compared to Temecula, Murrieta, and Menifee, Hemet offers significantly lower home prices, lower property taxes, and a generally lower cost of living.

Residents also enjoy wide open skies, mountain views, and a less dense feel than many nearby cities. Hemet does not feel overbuilt, and many neighborhoods have larger lots and quieter streets.

Outdoor access is another plus, with Diamond Valley Lake offering hiking, fishing, walking trails, and scenic views just minutes away.

Trade-Offs to Consider

Hemet has historically struggled with reputation issues tied to crime and aging infrastructure. While improvements are underway and certain areas have seen meaningful revitalization, buyers should understand that Hemet is still an older city with some neighborhoods that need additional investment.

Summers are hot, often exceeding 100 degrees, and entertainment and nightlife are limited compared to Temecula. Many residents travel outside the city for dining, nightlife, and major events.

Home Prices in Hemet

Hemet is one of the most affordable housing markets in Southern California.

• Entry-level homes can still be found in the mid $300,000 range

• The average single-family home price is around $440,000

• Larger homes and custom properties can reach $500,000 to $600,000+

There is also a wide variety of housing types:

• Traditional single-family tract homes

• Rural properties with acreage

• Manufactured and mobile homes

• 55+ active adult communities

• New construction developments

For retirees, manufactured homes and 55+ communities offer options between $250,000 and $400,000, making Hemet especially attractive for downsizing or cash buyers.

Cost of Living and Property Taxes

Property taxes in Hemet are typically lower than most Temecula Valley cities, averaging between 1.1% and 1.3%. Many homes do not have Mello-Roos taxes, which keeps monthly payments more manageable.

Homeowners associations are often optional. Many neighborhoods have no HOA at all, while newer or 55+ communities may range from $50 to $150 per month.

Daily expenses like groceries and gas are similar to the rest of the Inland Empire, but savings come from lower housing-related costs such as taxes, insurance, and HOA fees.

Renting in Hemet

Renters also benefit from affordability.

• Three to four bedroom homes typically rent for $2,200 to $3,000 per month

• Smaller homes, condos, and manufactured homes can range from $1,700 to $2,000

• Senior communities often offer even lower rental options

Hemet remains one of the most budget-friendly rental markets in Riverside County.

Schools in Hemet

Hemet schools are part of the Hemet Unified School District. While schools generally rank lower than those in Temecula and Murrieta, families can still find solid options depending on the neighborhood.

Notable high schools include:

• Hemet High School

• West Valley High School

• Tahquitz High School

Families are encouraged to review school ratings and parent feedback to determine the best fit.

For higher education, Mount San Jacinto College is located locally, with UC Riverside, Cal State San Bernardino, and San Diego universities within commuting distance.

Safety and Crime Considerations

Hemet has historically reported higher crime rates than surrounding cities. However, crime trends have improved over time, and safety varies significantly by neighborhood.

The city is served by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, which has a strong regional reputation and continues to implement proactive policing strategies.

Buyers should review crime maps, talk with local experts, and explore neighborhoods in person before making a decision.

Jobs and Employment

Hemet is primarily a commuter city. Local employment exists in retail, healthcare, education, law enforcement, and public services, but many residents commute to Temecula, Riverside, Orange County, or San Diego.

Remote work has made Hemet more attractive, allowing buyers to take advantage of affordability while maintaining higher-paying jobs elsewhere.

Things to Do in and Around Hemet

Local attractions include:

• Diamond Valley Lake for outdoor recreation

• Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre for seasonal performances

• Local parks, theaters, and bowling centers

For dining, nightlife, wineries, casinos, and major entertainment, most residents head to Old Town Temecula, Pechanga Resort Casino, San Diego, or Orange County.

Transportation and Commute

Hemet is approximately 20 minutes from the I-215 freeway. Main routes include Domenigoni Parkway and Highway 79.

Commute times can be significant:

• Temecula: 20 to 25 minutes

• San Diego: 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic

• Orange County or Los Angeles: up to 2.5 hours

Nearby airports include Palm Springs International, Ontario International, and San Diego International.

Healthcare Access

Hemet Global Medical Center serves the city locally. Additional healthcare options include:

• Temecula Valley Hospital

• Loma Linda University Medical Center

• Kaiser facilities within a 20 to 30 minute drive

Major specialty care is often accessed in San Diego or larger Inland Empire cities.

Is Hemet a Good Place to Live?

Hemet is an excellent option for buyers seeking affordability, first-time homeownership, retirement living, or a lower cost of living within Southern California. While it comes with trade-offs in schools, commute time, and entertainment, many buyers find the value compelling.

For those priced out of Temecula, Murrieta, or Menifee, Hemet provides a realistic path to homeownership.

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Thinking About Moving to Hemet or the Temecula Valley?

Andrew Lewis and Performance Real Estate Group are the #1 trusted real estate team in the Temecula Valley and surrounding Southern California markets. We help buyers relocate from San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and across the country.

Whether you are buying in two weeks or two years, we are happy to help you explore Hemet and nearby cities, schedule private tours, or walk through real numbers based on your goals.

Contact Information

Website: www.PerformanceREGroup.com
Email: Andrew@PerformanceREGroup.com
Phone: (951) 501-4994
DRE: 01914085
Zoom Consultation: https://tinyurl.com/cvrheu22