Are you thinking about moving to Murrieta, California? Before you pack up and head out, let’s take a real look at what it’s like to live here in 2025. As a local real estate agent who lives and works in the Temecula Valley, I want to give you an honest, no-fluff breakdown of the top pros and cons of living in Murrieta. Let’s dive in.

Pros of Living in Murrieta, CA

1. Safety

Murrieta consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in California, and even the entire U.S. With a population of over 100,000, you’d expect more crime, but statistics show otherwise. CrimeGrade.org gave Murrieta an A- rating for safety, making it a top choice for families and retirees alike.

2. Affordability (For Southern California)

With an average home price around $700,000, Murrieta is more affordable than Orange County or San Diego, by as much as 40–50%. While that might still sound pricey to out-of-state buyers, it's a relative deal if you're already in SoCal.

3. Great Schools

Murrieta’s school district is highly rated, with most schools scoring 7 or higher out of 10 on GreatSchools.org. That’s one reason families are flocking here. Compared to neighboring Menifee or Lake Elsinore, Murrieta is a standout for education.

4. Location

Murrieta is well-positioned. Want to hit the beach? It’s under an hour away. Snow in the mountains? You can be there in about an hour too. Palm Springs, San Diego, LA, and the desert are all within reach, without paying coastal prices.

5. Community Amenities

From parks to pickleball courts to city-hosted events like Rocktober Fest and outdoor concerts, Murrieta has worked hard to offer a strong sense of community. It may not be bustling with nightlife, but it's family-friendly and fun during the day.

Cons of Living in Murrieta, CA

1. Hot Summers

Expect several weeks above 100°F every summer. While it cools off in the evenings (unlike Arizona), the daytime heat can be a dealbreaker for some.

2. Traffic for Commuters

If you work in San Diego, Orange County, or LA, be prepared for long commutes. Rush-hour traffic can push your drive time to 90 minutes or more, especially southbound toward Temecula and San Diego.

3. Limited Nightlife

Murrieta is quiet after 8 PM. If you’re looking for late-night entertainment or concerts, you’ll need to head to Temecula, San Diego, or beyond.

4. Rapid Growth and Crowding

Murrieta’s booming population has made some areas feel congested. Parking lots (especially at Costco!) can be hectic, and infrastructure is still catching up with demand.

5. Higher Cost of Living (Compared to Other States)

While affordable for California, Murrieta’s cost of living, including utilities, gas, and groceries, is significantly higher than the national average. If you're moving from out of state, expect sticker shock.

Final Thoughts

Murrieta is an amazing place to live, if it fits your lifestyle. With great schools, a safe environment, and solid home values, it’s no wonder people are moving here in droves. But like any city, it comes with trade-offs: traffic, heat, and higher-than-average costs.

Want to learn more about Murrieta or get help deciding if it’s the right fit for you?

Schedule a Zoom call with my team or give us a call today.

We’re happy to walk you through the real numbers, neighborhoods, and lifestyle, so you can make the move with confidence.