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
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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 64 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 $460,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Get ready to fall in love with this West Hemet beauty! Located in the sought after Stoney Mountain Ranch neighborhood, this spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home offers the space, comfort, flexibility, and lifestyle you’ve been looking for. Step inside and discover a beautifully refreshed, move in ready interior featuring new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, new
55+ Well maintained Beautiful Senior Community of The Lakes at Hemet West. This is a well kept up Double Wide Home There are 2 bedrooms and 2 bathroom, family room and large living room indoor laundry, recently upgraded, carpets cleaned and fresh paint.There are so many amenities and lots of activities in this park with a huge swimming pool, spa, 9 hole golf course, library, art and painting,
Seller open to rate buy down!! Welcome to 1056 Dahlia Ct, Hemet. This charming 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 1,417 square feet of comfortable living space in an established residential neighborhood, plus an additional room that provides valuable flexible space for a 4th bedroom, home office, gym, hobby room, or other needs. The functional floor plan includes a main-level bedroom, a fenced yard,
~This property qualifies for a $20,000 grants not limited to first-time homebuyers, call for more info ~ Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in a well-established neighborhood in Hemet. This inviting residence offers a comfortable and functional layout, perfect for everyday living or those looking to downsize without sacrificing convenience. Step inside to find a bright
Enjoy easy, affordable living in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in the highly desirable London Spires 55+ community. Featuring a bright and welcoming interior, ample storage, and a cozy front porch perfect for morning coffee or relaxing evenings, this home offers comfort and convenience throughout. The kitchen includes new appliances, creating a stylish and functional space for
Welcome to this beautifully maintained and recently remodeled downstairs townhome located in a desirable gated East Hemet community! This turn-key 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers approximately 1,140 square feet of comfortable living space and is conveniently located near one of the community’s three sparkling pools.Step inside to find a thoughtfully updated interior featuring
About this Home / $48,000 / 2br / 2bath / 1976 Madison / 1344 sqft Welcome to this spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home offering 1,344 sq ft of comfortable living in a well-maintained community. Built in 1976, this home features an upgraded kitchen, and large private rooms, perfect for everyday living. Enjoy outdoor living with a huge covered patio, ideal for relaxing or hosting guests.
Are you ready to say YES to this address? This spacious home offers over 2,600 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, including a downstairs bedroom and bathroom, perfect for guests, extended family, or a home office. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features formal living and dining rooms, plus an open kitchen overlooking the additional dining area and family room. The kitchen
Discover affordable resort-style living in the highly desirable Pueblo Sereno 55+ community in Hemet! This brand-new 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features a bright open floor plan and beautiful views of the Idyllwild mountains. Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with community amenities including a sparkling pool, relaxing spa, horseshoe pit, dog park, and welcoming community center. With space rent at just
55+ Senior Mobile Home park offering a 2Bedroom, 2 Bathroom well configured mobile home with recent upgrades and a freshly coated roof and indoor laundry and plenty of storage, Space Rent $635.00 Per month, Please call Golden Coach Manor at 951/925-1210 for rules and qualification for the land lease, Easy to qualify. this one wont last Call Today.
Prepare to fall in love! Beautifully renovated and truly move-in ready, this land-owned home has been thoughtfully updated and is ready for its next owner. Enjoy new luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh interior and exterior paint, updated bathrooms with modern vanities and stylish shower surrounds, refreshed kitchen cabinetry, and a bright, open floor plan filled with natural light. French doors
Welcome home to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath residence in the highly sought-after London Spires 55+ community! Featuring a welcoming front porch, this well-maintained home offers the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and easy living. Inside, you'll find a bright and functional layout with inviting living spaces and comfortable bedrooms designed for relaxation. Nestled in a peaceful community
Get ready to fall in love with this West Hemet beauty! Located in the sought after Stoney Mountain Ranch neighborhood, this spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home offers the space, comfort, flexibility, and lifestyle you’ve been looking for. Step inside and discover a beautifully refreshed, move in ready interior featuring new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, new
Brand NEW and move-in ready in the highly desirable London Spires 55+ community! This beautiful 2 bed, 2 bath home features a bright open-concept floor plan, spacious kitchen with brand-new appliances, ample counter space, and a large island perfect for entertaining. Enjoy durable laminate flooring in the main living areas, cozy carpeted bedrooms, warm wood cabinetry, and plenty of storage
Beautiful BRAND NEW 2 bed, 2 bath home in the highly desirable London Spires 55+ community! This bright, open-concept home features brand-new appliances, spacious bedrooms, a luxurious primary bath, and abundant storage throughout. Enjoy easy access to fantastic community amenities, including a swimming pool, recreation center, and dog park. Move-in ready and designed for comfortable,
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
Catalina Gardens offers single story apartments designed for Adults 62+. This small friendly, 30-unit apartment community set among private courtyards lined with roses, palm trees, and lush landscaping provide a quite, peaceful atmosphere. We offer the largest floor plans for Seniors in the city of Hemet. Catalina Gardens is a secure community with gated parking and a FREE assigned carport with
Experience the epitome of community, comfort, and balanced living at Palm Court Apartment Homes located in the heart of Hemet, California. Immerse yourself in our upgraded apartment homes, where artful design seamlessly merges with practicality. At Palm Court, modern living meets comfort and convenience. Our thoughtfully designed studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartment homes feature open concept
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
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
A perfectly placed- cozy cottage style community. Specializing in 2 bedrooms/2 baths at 864 square feet with large open floor plans. Enjoy a controlled access, fully gated community with plush green landscaping, sparkling pool, spa, 3 laundry facilities (open 24/7), covered parking and onsite management/maintenance. We cover the water, sewer and trash. Storage units available at additional
We are proud to be a gated community. Our apartments are in a convenient location in Hemet, putting you close to parks, library, YMCA and great restaurants! We are also just minutes away from shopping areas and banks. Your stay here in Hemet will be a breeze at the Mountain View Apartments.
*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 Home to Vista Gardens! Our community offers spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartment homes nestled in a quite setting. We are located in a desirable neighborhood within minutes of shopping and recreational areas. Our apartments feature custom carpet, blinds, spacious closets, central air conditioning and covered parking. Not to mention each apartment home is wired for high speed internet and
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.
Picture this: you've just prepped your favorite meal and you're about to start cooking, when disaster strikes - you forgot one ingredient! Not just any ingredient, but the one that the dish simply can't do without (perhaps nachos without chips, or chicken wings without ranch). Now picture living in your 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartment in Shadow Canyon, where you can head next door to Starter Bros.
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