Cost of Living in Hemet, CA

With a cost of living index of 107, Hemet, CA is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 7% more expensive than the national average and 37% below the California state average of 144. With a population of 90,646, Hemet is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Hemet's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,432 (9% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $314,200 (3% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.9x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Hemet is $53,623, which is 29% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 32% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Hemet. The area sees an average annual temperature of 63.3°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 52°F. Annual rainfall totals 10.7 inches spread over roughly 0 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.