Living in Hemet, CA (2025) | Full Guide to Homes, Costs & Lifestyle

Summary

This video offers a complete guide to living in Hemet, California, highlighting both its advantages and trade-offs. The host discusses affordable housing, lower property taxes, scenic surroundings, and access to outdoor activities like Diamond Valley Lake. He also covers shopping, dining, schools, healthcare, safety, and job opportunities, noting that many residents commute for work. While Hemet faces challenges such as higher summer heat, limited nightlife, and past crime concerns, ongoing improvements are changing its reputation. Overall, the video presents Hemet as an attractive, budget-friendly option for first-time buyers, retirees, and those seeking affordable Southern California living.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hemet, California, is an affordable place to live in the Temecula Valley, with home prices ranging from $400,000 to $500,000.
• 😀 The cost of living in Hemet is lower than the national average and surrounding areas, making it a budget-friendly option for homebuyers.
• 😀 Hemet offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing at Diamond Valley Lake, which adds to the area’s appeal.
• 😀 One downside to living in Hemet is the historically higher crime rate, although improvements are being made to reduce it over time.
• 😀 The local economy is less robust, with fewer job opportunities. Many residents commute to nearby cities like Riverside or San Diego for work.
• 😀 Hemet has a range of retail and grocery options including Walmart, Target, and Stater Brothers, but lacks a major shopping mall like Temecula’s.
• 😀 Dining in Hemet offers a variety of locally-owned restaurants, but the town is not known for fine dining. Residents often drive to nearby cities for upscale options.
• 😀 The school system in Hemet ranks lower compared to nearby areas like Temecula, with options for higher education available at local community colleges and universities in surrounding cities.
• 😀 Property taxes in Hemet are on the lower end of the spectrum, ranging between 1.1% to 1.3%, making it more affordable for homeowners.
• 😀 Hemet has a few healthcare options, with the Hemet Global Medical Center being the primary facility, but major treatment centers are located further away in Riverside or San Diego.

Q & A

What is the main appeal of living in Hemet, California?

The main appeal of living in Hemet is its affordability. Housing prices are significantly lower than in nearby areas like Temecula and Murrieta, making it a great option for first-time homebuyers and retirees looking to downsize.

How does the cost of living in Hemet compare to other areas in the Temecula Valley?

The cost of living in Hemet is lower than the local average and the national average. While everyday expenses like groceries and gas are comparable to other parts of the Temecula Valley, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees are all more affordable in Hemet.

What are some of the outdoor activities available in Hemet?

Hemet offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and camping at places like Diamond Valley Lake. The region's scenic mountain views and wide open spaces also contribute to its appeal.

Are there any downsides to living in Hemet?

Some downsides of living in Hemet include its historically high crime rate (though it's improving), limited economic opportunities, extremely hot summers, and a lack of nightlife and entertainment options. Commuters may also face long travel times.

How does the crime rate in Hemet compare to other areas?

Hemet has historically had a higher crime rate compared to surrounding cities like Temecula and Murrieta. However, the situation is improving, with investments and new community efforts aimed at enhancing safety.

What types of homes are available in Hemet, and what are the price ranges?

In Hemet, you can find a variety of home types, including single-family homes, 55+ community homes, and manufactured homes. Prices for entry-level homes start at around $300,000, with the average price for a 3-4 bedroom home being about $440,000. Larger homes or rural properties can go up to $600,000 or more.

How does Hemet's school system rank compared to surrounding areas?

Hemet's school system is ranked lower than neighboring areas like Temecula. The area is served by schools like Hemet High and West Valley High, and higher education options are available at Mount San Jacinto Community College. However, some residents may need to commute to attend universities or major colleges.

What types of jobs are available in Hemet?

Hemet offers job opportunities primarily in retail, healthcare, education, and public services like law enforcement and firefighting. However, the city has limited economic activity, meaning many residents commute to nearby cities for work, such as Riverside, Temecula, or San Diego.

What is the typical commute like for residents of Hemet?

Commuting from Hemet to major cities like San Diego, Riverside, or Orange County can take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The town is located about 20 minutes from the nearest freeway, which adds to the total commute time.

How is healthcare access in Hemet?

Hemet residents can access healthcare through the Hemet Global Medical Center, which offers essential services. For more specialized care, residents often need to travel to nearby cities like Temecula, Riverside, or San Diego.