9 Affordable Places to Live in the Inland Empire in 2024

With its stunning desert landscapes, affordable cities, tranquil atmosphere, and proximity to major cities, the Inland Empire is a great place to live in southern California. Encompassing two counties – Riverside and San Bernardino, residents are drawn to the area for its peaceful surroundings and outdoor recreational opportunities. If you’re considering moving to Inland Empire, you’re in the right place.

The median home sale price in Riverside County is $585,000, while the median home sale price in San Bernardino County is $500,000. If those prices are out of your range, we’re here to help.

At Redfin, we’ve compiled a list of 9 of the most affordable places to live in Inland Empire this year. The best part is that the median home sale prices are all under $500,000. Let’s check out which cities made the list.

1. Desert Hot Springs

Median home price: $369,000
Average sale price per square foot: $238
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,850
Median household income: $45,863
Desert Hot Springs, CA homes for sale
Desert Hot Springs, CA apartments for rent

Claiming the first spot on our list of affordable places to live in Inland Empire is Desert Hot Springs. This city is known for its hot springs, stunning mountain views, and vibrant arts scene. Located north of Palm Springs, the median home sale price is $369,000, and the population is approximately 32,500. Popular attractions include visiting Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, spending a relaxing afternoon at the Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel, and exploring the Mission Creek Preserve.

2. Yucca Valley

Median home price: $400,500
Average sale price per square foot: $280
Median household income: $54,153
Yucca Valley, CA homes for sale
Yucca Valley, CA apartments for rent

In the second spot is Yucca Valley, a charming town with a median home sale price of $400,500 and a population of approximately 21,700. The city is known for its proximity to Joshua Tree National Park, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and easy access to hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.

3. Banning

Median home price: $409,500
Average sale price per square foot: $304
Median household income: $54,083
Banning, CA homes for sale
Banning, CA apartments for rent

The home prices in Banning are about 180K than in Riverside County. Located in west Riverside County, Banning is home to approximately 29,500 people. The city offers a small-town feel with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and exploring the nearby San Bernardino National Forest.

4. Hemet

Median home price: $435,000
Average sale price per square foot: $255
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,572
Median household income: $49,901
Hemet, CA homes for sale
Hemet, CA apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $435,000 and a population of approximately 89,800, Hemet is another great place in the Inland Empire to check out. Residents can enjoy the Diamond Valley Lake, Simpson Park, and the Western Science Center, making it an ideal place for nature lovers.

5. Colton

Median home price: $450,250
Average sale price per square foot: $422
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,764
Median household income: $66,725
Colton, CA homes for sale
Colton, CA apartments for rent

Just south of San Bernardino, Colton has a median home sale price of $450,250. Nicknamed “Hub City,” this area has a rich history and vibrant atmosphere with attractions like the Fiesta Village Family Fun Park and views of the Santa Ana River.

6. San Bernardino

Median home price: $460,000
Average sale price per square foot: $343
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,532
Median household income: $61,323
San Bernardino, CA homes for sale
San Bernardino, CA apartments for rent

In sixth place on our list is San Bernardino. This city is home to about 222,100 residents, so it’s one of the larger cities in the Inland Empire. Residents can explore attractions like the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum, Glen Helen Regional Park, and the National Orange Show Events Center.

7. San Jacinto

Median home price: $466,990
Average sale price per square foot: $233
Median household income: $73,682
San Jacinto, CA homes for sale
San Jacinto, CA apartments for rent

You’ll find that the median home sale price in San Jacinto is $466,990, meaning it’s a less expensive option if you’re looking to live in this region. The city offers a mix of affordable housing and natural beauty, with attractions like the nearby Diamond Valley Lake and the Estudillo Mansion.

8. Hesperia

Median home price: $480,000
Average sale price per square foot: $253
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,695
Median household income: $67,698
Hesperia, CA homes for sale
Hesperia, CA apartments for rent

The next city is Hesperia, home to about 99,800 residents. The city has picturesque desert views and natural beauty, with attractions like the Hesperia Lake Park, Mojave River, and Lime Street Park. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor activities like the Pacific Crest Trail and Silverwood Lake.

9. Loma Linda

Median home price: $484,000
Average sale price per square foot: $340
Median household income: $70,685
Loma Linda, CA homes for sale
Loma Linda, CA apartments for rent

Last but not least on our list of affordable places to live in Inland Empire is Loma Linda. This city has a median home sale price of $484,000 and a population of approximately 24,800. Residents can explore attractions like Hulda Crooks Park and hike up to the South Hills Point.

Methodology: All cities must have over 20,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median list price in Riverside County and San Bernardino County. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during February 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com February 2024. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

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