Featuring some of the most affordable housing in all of California, the San Jacinto Valley city of Hemet is far removed from busy urban life: Riverside is about 34 miles northwest, Palm Springs is about 43 miles east and Los Angeles is 88 miles west. Hemet was first developed as a retirement community in the early 1960s, but in recent years, healthcare professionals, commuters and families with young children have been moving in. "They come here for job opportunities and the comparative affordability," says Vivian Arias, Hemet-based Realtor with Brubaker Culton Real Estate and Development. Hemet's public school system is well rated, and the city's home to Hemet Global Medical Center, a major employer, and more than 50 assisted living communities. Fishing, boating, hiking and biking are year-round area pastimes, both locally and in the mountain town of Idyllwild, and each spring since 1923, crowds have flocked to the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre for the annual theater adaptation of "Ramona," a famous novel about Southern California.
An aerial view of Hemet showing the many nearby retail options.
Trust Hemet Global Medical Center for compassionate and comprehensive medical care.
Visit the Ramona Bowl in Hemet for unforgettable outdoor performances.
Sierra Dawn Estates stands as a beacon of Hemet’s historical real estate landscape.
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Homes for nearly half the state median
The median home price in Hemet is $460,000, compared to California's median of roughly $905,000, Murrieta's $670,000 and Menifee's $600,000. "You could get a home in Murrieta or Menifee for about $600,000, but you won’t have a yard," says Arias. "In Hemet, you pay about the same price, and you get more space." Modest Craftsman-style bungalows and ranch-style homes here were built between the 1920s and late 1940s, while new traditional homes were built between the early 2000s and 2010s. The most affordable area in the city is the Downtown Hemet neighborhood, while larger homes with larger price tags are available in the Diamond Valley neighborhood. New subdivisions like Winchester are developing on the west side of town.
Hemet has a variety of home style but the most common is Spanish-style.
This is a typical Hemet row of homes at the California Mobile Home Park.
Spanish-style single-story homes boast throughout Hemet.
Single-Story homes with freshly cut grass are found in Hemet.
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Weekend escapes to rural Idyllwild
Residents can go fishing and boating at local Diamond Valley Lake, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Southern California, and go hiking and biking on the surrounding trails. Nearby at the roughly 500-acre Simpson Park, hiking trails climb as high as 2,500 feet, offering views over the lake and the San Jacinto Valley. About 23 miles from Hemet, Idyllwild is a small town in the San Jacinto Mountains, brimming with pine forests and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Hemet residents tend to visit Idyllwild for a peaceful weekend in the woods and shopping at locally owned boutiques.
In Downtown Hemet, the Hemet Museum is set in the former Santa Fe Train Depot, offering a little taste of Hemet history. "Our building was constructed in 1898," says Chuck Coker, museum docent and Director at Large of the Hemet Museum. "We teach people not only about Hemet but the entire history of San Jacinto Valley and regional history. When you come here, you'll see fossils from native animals that were dug up around the reservoir." Also downtown, the Hemet Public Library is home to hundreds of novels and CDs, and plenty of quiet spaces to enjoy them.
Explore a world of knowledge and adventure at Hemet Public Library.
Explore the fascinating exhibits that bring Hemet's past to life at the Hemet Museum.
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Diamond in Hemet.
Relax on a bench with a view at Simpson Park in Hemet.
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B rated schools in the city
Children in Hemet attend the Hemet Unified School District, which serves over 22,000 students with 28 schools and is rated an overall B by Niche. Of the district's seven high schools, six earn at least a B rating from Niche. In partnership with the district, The Hemet Valley Art Association provides scholarships for local high schoolers who want to pursue an education in art, as well as classes and workshops for students of all ages.
Newly Constructed Campus of Winchester Elementary School Located in the Winchester-San Jacinto Area
Aerial View of the Modern Campus at Winchester Elementary School in Winchester-San Jacinto
The courses at Rancho Viejo Middle School in Hemet encourage critical thinking and creativity.
Students are the highest priority at Tahquitz High School in Hemet.
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Dining downtown and the Ramona Theatre
Hemet has plans to turn its downtown area into a shopping and dining hub by 2030, centered around locally owned retail and restaurants. For now, standouts in the small downtown dining scene include Rocking K Ranch, specializing in steak and beer, and Destination Smokehouse & Eatery, serving up barbeque sandwiches and a menu full of slow-cooked meats. Also downtown, the Historic Hemet Theater was built in 1921 and is one of the oldest continually run single-screen movie theaters in the nation; the theater also stages performances by local bands who pay tribute to rock icons like Queen and Led Zeppelin. Residents can head to the Hemet Valley Mall for national retail chains, and to East Florida Avenue for dining options that include Mexican, sushi and sports bars.
Each year since 1923, the local Ramona Bowl Amphitheater has been staging "The Ramona Pageant," an epic play loosely based on "Ramona," the 1884 novel by Helen Hunt Jackson that explores the origins of Southern California. Several performances of the play are staged at this natural amphitheater between late April and early May, drawing crowds from all over the region. In summertime, the Ramona Bowl hosts the Concert Under the Stars series, featuring area musical acts.
Destination Smokehouse & Eatery in Downtown Hemet offers brisket, pulled pork, and more.
Step back in time with a show at the charming Historic Hemet Theatre.
Discover the magic of live performances at the Historic Hemet Theatre.
Discover a world of shopping at Hemet Valley Mall, your local retail destination.
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State routes lead to neighboring cities
Hemet sits at the junction of Highways 74 and 79; Highway 74 leads about 11 miles to Interstate 215, and Highway 79 leads roughly 16 miles to Interstate 10. Riverside Transit Agency, known as RTA, provides bus service in Hemet and throughout western Riverside County. Hemet Global Medical Center is the city's main hospital, and Palm Springs International Airport is about 50 miles away.
Lower crimes reported compared to the state and nation
According to FBI statistics from December 2023, the Hemet Police Department reported violent crime at an annual rate of about 6 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the California rate of about 10 and national rate of roughly 12. Property-related crime was reported at an annual rate of around 13 incidents per 1,000 residents, lower than the California rate of 20 and the national rate of 17.
Hemet lies on a portion of the San Jacinto Fault Zone, which is one of the most active faults in California and prone to earthquakes. However, many of the earthquakes are minor and do not do significant damage to property.
Written By
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Kory Ross
Video By
Mary Desmond
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jacob Mahaffey,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Hemet, CA sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Hemet, CA over the last 12 months is $450,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this charming home located in a quiet and established Hemet neighborhood , Whispering Palms 55+ community . This well-maintained residence offers approximately 1,440 square feet of living space with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, providing a comfortable and functional layout for everyday living. The home features an inviting living area, a spacious kitchen, and generous bedroom sizes
Welcome to Whispering Palms – a beautifully maintained 55+ gated community in the heart of Hemet. This spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom manufactured home with bonus den/office sits on a permanent foundation on its own lot (you own the land and do not pay space rent), offering 1,744 sq ft of comfortable living space designed with functionality and ease in mind. The HOA dues cover water, trash and
Beautiful home located in the highly desirable Stoney Mountain tract! This spacious four-bedroom, three-bath residence offers 2,222 square feet of living space on a generous 8,276 sq. ft. lot. The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes one bedroom and one full bathroom conveniently located downstairs—perfect for guests or multi-generational living.Downstairs features engineered wood-look
Welcome to 873 San Ignacio Drive, Hemet — located in a desirable 55+ Sierra Dawn community with land ownership. This move-in-ready home offers comfortable, low-maintenance living in a quiet neighborhood designed for active adults. Recent updates include new carpet throughout and a freshly painted exterior, giving the home a clean, updated look. The functional floor plan features spacious living
Discover an extraordinary retreat perched high above Diamond Valley Lake—this 10.26-acre estate combines upscale finishes with ranch functionality. Approaching through a gated entrance secured by keypad access, you’ll find the grounds fully fenced for privacy and peace of mind. Inside, the single-level home spans approximately 3,287sq ft and features custom touches throughout including separate
Welcome to 43840 Citrus View Drive Hemet California, an exceptional luxury-leaning estate offering space, privacy, and breathtaking views overlooking the Citrus Ranches. Situated on a sprawling 32,234 square foot lot, this 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence spans 4,099 square feet and is located within the Hemet School District, blending refined living with a serene, country setting.The home is
Approved Short Sale as of 01/14/2026. AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO OWE THIS STUNNING POOL HOME WITH RV PARKING!!! Step into this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, perfectly situated in a desirable neighborhood. With high ceilings throughout, this home feels spacious and inviting from the moment you walk in. The living and dining room combo creates an open and welcoming atmosphere, while the family
Price Improved! Whispering Palms a gated community in Hemet for 55+ Senior. This is a triple wide Manufactured home on a permanent foundation with over 2600sf living space. Features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Den, laundry room and attached 2 cars garage. Carpet AND wood-like vinyl flooring throughout. Primary bedroom has walk in closet and spacious separate shower and soaking tub in the ensuite
WELCOME TO THE EXCLUSIVE LAKES LIFESTYLE ..ACTIVE RETIREMENT AT ITS FINEST..THE COMMUNITY HAS IT ALL WITH ACTIVITIES EVERYDAY..ALL DAY.. GOLF, PICKLEBALL, BILLIARDS, POOLS, YOGA, TAI CHI, DANCES, POT LUCKS, AND A MASSIVE LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY CENTER TO ENJOY EVENTS AND GATHERINGS. THE ULTA SECURE AND PRIVATE GATED ESCAPE INCLUDES THIS LUXURIOUS 1440 SQ FT 1993 GOLDENWEST HOME WITH 2 LARGE
Welcome to this well-maintained double-wide manufactured home located in the desirable Foothills of Hemet 55+ community. Offering approximately 1,152 sq ft, this single-level residence features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a functional and comfortable floor plan. The home includes central heating and air conditioning, a kitchen equipped with built-in appliances, and convenient indoor laundry
OWN the Land in this 55+ community! 2bd/1ba with BONUS area creating additional living space. Previously remodeled with stone farmhouse sink, bullnose edge granite counter tops in kitchen, induction cooktop, quartz counter top in bathroom. Beautiful easy to maintain tile flooring, nice tiled bathroom shower. BONUS Room is a great area to use as a hobby room, game room or formal living room,
No fault to seller buyer didn’t want to continue the replacement property. Currently seller has a replacement property and motivated. 4 bed, 2 bath manufactured home on permanent foundation situated on 6 acre of land. Spacious layout with split-bedroom design. Home needs some cosmetic updates—perfect for a buyer looking to add personal touches. Large, usable lot offers endless possibilities.
RETIRE NOW !! YOU OWN THE LAND AND H.O.A. OF $293 MONTH INCLUDES H20, CABLE, AND TRASH !! MT. SHADOWS RESORT IS A GATED 55+ COMMUNITY WITH AN AMAZING ARRAY OF THINGS TO DO AND IS CENTRALLY LOCATED FOR EASE OF SHOPPING, FOOD ENTERTAINMENT AND EVEN A COMMUTE !!YOU WILL BE GREETED BY CODED SECURITY GATE AND ON SITE MANAGEMENT FOR PIECE OF MIND--NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM. PARK HAS COMMUNITY
55+ Affordable and move in ready 2 bedroom 2 bath home in Sierra Dawn South where you own the lot too! Low maintenance exterior with fenced patio area and partially fenced rear yard. Interior has been refurbished and is move in ready! Neutral taupe flooring throughout, for a clean attractive flow. Blinds on all windows, freshly painted interior. Kitchen has been upgraded with newer countertops,
Welcome to 5001 W Florida Ave #208, nestled in the beautiful 55+ resort-style community of The Lakes at Hemet West. This charming 2-bed, 2-bath home offers 1,440 sq ft of open living space with beamed ceilings, tile flooring, and a bright kitchen with all appliances included. Enjoy the spacious primary suite with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower, plus a private deck overlooking
Welcome to Azul Apartment Homes, your new home! Located near great entertainment options, top employers, and public transportation, our apartments in Hemet, CA will delight you. When it comes to your comfort, our beautifully designed floor plans, life-enhancing amenities and services, and location leave nothing to chance. If you're seeking a relaxing and convenient living experience, then our
*** Beautiful one level House with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bath vary desirable area of Hemet. *** Will be available 04/15/2026 *** Partially furnished *** Waiting for his new tenants *** Close to shopping, schools, highways ***
Life at 55 and up just got a lot better. When it comes to senior living in Hemet, CA, Oak Terrace Apartments offers a unique and joyful living experience. Make the most of our leisure areas, which include a swimming pool, a bustling clubhouse, a relaxing spa with a hot tub, and a lush courtyard. Rely on the convenience of our laundry facilities and on-site services for convenience as you unwind
Welcome to this beautifully maintained single-story home in Hemet — a bright, comfortable space designed for easy living. Enjoy the convenience of central A/C and the added savings of solar panels included with the lease. Step through the impressive double-door entry into a home filled with natural light, neutral paint, and modern fixtures throughout. The spacious living room features a stylish
Welcome home to Palm Court Apartment Homes! Centrally located in Hemet, California near shopping, dining, and entertainment, our community affords you the opportunity to enjoy your day at home or out on the town. Upgrade your lifestyle and surround yourself with all the comforts and conveniences of apartment living at Palm Court Apartment Homes. We offer spacious one, two and three bedroom
Oh my! All of this! New-New-New! New flooring, new paint, new stove, new fridge! This super clean home is the back unit of a duplex. The two homes are separated by private garages. This home has two bedrooms and a bonus room that could be a guest, play, craft room or office. The house has two bathrooms and inside laundry hookups. Private back patio in a quiet setting. Don't wait! No pets please!
Conveniently located off Highway 74, evRIA Diamond Valley Apartment Homes is less than 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake and within walking distance of shopping plazas, schools, and restaurants. Our one- and two-bedroom homes feature in-home washers and dryers, private patios or balconies with storage, wood-burning fireplaces (in select units), and spacious kitchens with full appliance
Step into modern comfort with this beautifully crafted 3-bedroom, 3-bath single-story home, built in 2023. Designed with both style and functionality in mind, this newer construction offers a seamless open-concept layout perfect for today’s lifestyle. The heart of the home is the spacious kitchen, featuring elegant granite countertops, abundant cabinet space, and sleek stainless steel appliances.
Riverdale Apartments, in Hemet, California, is a great place to call home. This property is beautifully landscaped with desert motif gardens, plentiful trees, and green grass. These spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes are perfect for a wide variety of lifestyles and boast large kitchens with plenty of cupboard space.
Welcome to beautiful Vista De Oro ALL AGE Mobile Home park! **Lease opportunity** Unit 115 has been recently renovated, As you enter the home, you find an open and spacious living room with a sliding door exit and high ceilings, featuring carpet throughout. Continuing to the Kitchen, completed with clean white cabinets, white countertops, and all stainless steel appliances. Going down the hall,
*Floor plan prices listed are market base rents with no additional fees included. For a better understanding of a total monthly rent and possible additional fees, please ask office personnel for further details.*Amberwood Villas invites you to view one of our spacious Studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartment homes. We are a pet friendly community that offers a fitness center, pool, spa,
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home located in a golf course community, community pool, club house, dog park, community activities, a senior 55+ community in the Panorama Village, city of Hemet. Everything you could think of has been repaired, replaced, or upgraded—offering peace of mind and a home you’ll truly love living in, new water heater, fresh interior and
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