Is Moving to the Inland Empire Worth It? What to Know Before You Relocate

by Brianna Porter-Hoops

Thinking about moving to the Inland Empire? You’re not alone. The Inland Empire—covering much of Riverside County and San Bernardino County—has become a hot topic for California movers seeking more value and space. But like any region, it comes with trade-offs.Learn the pros, cons, cost of living, lifestyle, commute times, and what to expect before relocating to this growing SoCal region.

The Inland Empire’s Rising Popularity

If you’re considering a move to the Inland Empire, you’re in good company. Over the last decade, thousands of Californians have migrated east from Los Angeles and Orange County in search of more space, more affordability, and more breathing room. With two major counties (Riverside and San Bernardino), the region stretches from suburban neighborhoods to scenic mountain communities to rapidly growing cities buzzing with new development.

But before you pack your boxes and order the moving truck, it’s important to understand what life is really like here. The Inland Empire offers incredible advantages but it also carries some trade-offs. This guide breaks down everything you need to know so you can decide if the move fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

What Exactly Is the Inland Empire?

The Inland Empire (commonly called the IE) includes more than 4.5 million residents and spans two large counties east of Los Angeles:

Riverside County
San Bernardino County

Major cities include Riverside, Corona, Ontario, Temecula, Rancho Cucamonga, Murrieta, Redlands, Fontana, and Moreno Valley — each offering a different feel, pace, and housing style.

The IE has transformed from agricultural land and open space into one of the fastest-growing residential regions in the state.

The Pros of Moving to the Inland Empire

1. More Affordable Housing

Compared to Los Angeles and Orange County, the IE offers significantly more space for the price.
Residents often find:

Larger homes
Bigger yards
Newer builds
Community amenities

For many buyers, homes that would cost $900K+ in coastal counties are closer to $500K–$700K in the IE.

2. Strong Residential Growth

Developers are actively building:

New-construction communities
Master-planned neighborhoods
Shopping centers and entertainment
New schools
Parks and recreational areas

This creates an environment with long-term opportunity and lifestyle upgrades.

3. Outdoor Recreation

The Inland Empire is surrounded by natural playgrounds:

Big Bear Lake
Lake Arrowhead
Mount San Jacinto
Lake Perris
Joshua Tree National Park
Temecula wine country

Residents enjoy easy access to camping, hiking, snowboarding, boating, and scenic drives.

4. A Slower, More Suburban Pace

The IE attracts people who want the benefits of Southern California without the constant noise, congestion, and density of "LA" city life and coastal cities.

Communities often feel more family focused, neighborhood oriented, and relaxed.

The Cons of Moving to the Inland Empire

1. Long Commutes (Depending on Where You Work)

If you commute to Los Angeles or Orange County, traffic can be challenging. Travel times often range:

45–90+ minutes each way
Peak hours can add unpredictability
Many freeways merge into popular commuter routes

Remote work greatly improves the experience of living in the IE.

2. Hotter Summers

The Inland Empire runs warmer than coastal SoCal. Summer temperatures often reach:

High 90s to 105+ degrees but the plus- Most homes have pools for year round enjoyment
Some desert-adjacent communities run hotter

Energy bills reflect these shifts as AC usage becomes essential.

3. Expanding Infrastructure

Because the region is growing so rapidly, some parts of the IE still feel “in progress.” This includes:

Road construction
New retail and services still catching up
Developing school districts

Some prefer this “up-and-coming” energy, while others want fully-established communities.

Cost of Living in the Inland Empire

Housing

Housing is the biggest financial advantage of relocating:

Lower cost per square foot
More availability
Family-sized homes at accessible prices

First-time buyers and growing families find the IE particularly appealing.

Utilities & Energy

Electricity costs can be higher due to AC usage in the summer. Modern homes with solar can reduce ongoing expenses.

Transportation

Owning a car is nearly essential. Commuters should budget for:

Gas
Maintenance
Toll roads (optional routes)

Comparing to LA or Orange County

Most IE residents move from these two counties, where:

Housing prices are significantly higher
Rentals are increasingly competitive
Space is more limited

The Inland Empire gives many families the breathing room they crave while staying within reasonable reach of the coast.

Lifestyle & Community Vibe

1. Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Many Inland Empire cities rank high for:

Newer schools
Family amenities
Parks and community spaces
Youth sports and programs

2. Diverse Culture & Growing Entertainment

The region includes:

Shopping centers
Restaurants
Breweries
Festivals and farmers markets
Art walks and downtown revitalizations

Temecula Valley wine country stands out as a lifestyle perk all on its own.

3. Slower Pace, Bigger Homes

Many movers cite the ability to have:

Guest rooms
Home offices
Backyards
Bonus rooms
Play areas
Side yards for RVs or trailers

These features are harder to find at coastal prices.

Questions to Ask Before Moving

Where will I work, and what is my commute like?
Do I prefer a newer home or an established neighborhood?
What schools or districts fit my family’s needs?
Do I want a walkable community or one with more space?
How important is nightlife, entertainment, or dining to me?
Which cities match my lifestyle and future plans?

Answering these questions narrows your choices quickly.

Thinking about moving to the Inland Empire?
Get personalized neighborhood recommendations, price insights, and a custom relocation roadmap.
Click here to schedule your free relocation consult.

Brianna Porter-Hoops

02002571 REAL Broker

Realtor - MRP

562.380.0188

REALBriHoops@gmail.com