Temecula, California, is a popular tourist and retirement destination. After visiting this beautiful area, many people think about moving to Temecula.
However, like any area, the city has pros and cons, and considering both can help you make a more informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Temecula has beautiful weather for most of the year but does experience hot temperatures and some natural disasters.
- Living and housing costs are lower in Temecula than in most of California.
- A low crime rate and great school systems make Temecula a fantastic place to raise a family.
- Temecula is centrally located near San Diego, Los Angeles, and many beautiful beaches.
- The city offers a wide range of entertainment and dining options.
- Traffic can be heavy, and there are few options for commuting other than by car.
- As is the case for most of California, Temecula’s taxes are relatively high.
- Temecula is limited in its diversity and isn’t always welcoming.
- The landscape around Temecula is gorgeous.
1. Weather
Because Temecula is located in Southern California, the area experiences pleasant weather almost all year.
Summers can be relatively hot, which can be a drawback for some people, but they’re dry, with low humidity levels and infrequent rain.
Winters are mild, and the temperature rarely drops below 50 degrees.
Although Temecula’s weather is quite pleasant, residents will need to contend with the occasional earthquake or wildfire.
These natural disasters aren’t too common, but they do happen frequently enough that most residents of Southern California consider them a part of life.
2. Cost of Living
California is notoriously expensive, but Temecula has a much lower cost of living than most other parts of the state.
Although according to Salary.com, the cost of living is up 3% from the previous year.
A single person can expect to spend about $2,000 per month on rent and utilities and about $840 per month on other living expenses.
To compare, a single person living in Los Angeles will spend about $1,100 per month on living expenses, not including rent.
An average apartment in Los Angeles costs about $2,700 per month.
3. Low Crime Rate
Temecula has an incredibly low crime rate, which is one of the city’s biggest benefits.
Out of all cities in the United States, Temecula is ranked as the sixth safest city. There are less than 100 reported violent crimes for the city’s more than 114,000 residents.
4. Excellent School Systems
Temecula also has an excellent public school system.
The area’s schools are some of the highest-rated in the state, and they also rank well when compared to schools in other major cities around the country.
Temecula’s high schools also have a nearly 100% graduation rate.
5. Proximity to Beaches and Other Major Cities
Temecula is part of California’s Inland Empire, so it doesn’t have its own beach.
However, many beautiful beaches are located not far from the city, and you can often reach a great beach in a half-hour’s drive or less.
Temecula is a relatively quiet city, but if you’re looking for more entertainment or nightlife options, two major California cities, Los Angeles and San Diego, aren’t too far away.
San Diego is about an hour from Temecula, and Los Angeles is about an hour and a half away. Some people even choose to commute to one of these cities for work while spending less on rent by living in Temecula.
These drives can be slowed down by heavy traffic, though, so keep that in mind if you’re thinking of driving into one of these cities frequently.
6. Economy
Temecula’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average, and the city is also home to some of the fast-growing companies in the U.S.
Finding a job in Temecula isn’t hard, and there are several thriving industries to choose from, including healthcare, retail, education, and entertainment.
A single person can expect to spend about $2,000 per month on rent and utilities in Temecula, CA.
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7. Entertainment Options
Although San Diego and Los Angeles are generally more popular options for entertainment, Temecula offers plenty to see and do.
One of the country’s biggest casinos is located in the city, so adults can have fun gambling or stop in for drinks and dinner. The area is also home to several wineries, and residents can tour the wineries, sample different wines, or enjoy brunch or dinner.
Hot air ballooning is also quite popular in the area, and for anyone who prefers a more grounded hobby, there are several golf courses.
For more family-oriented options, the city is home to several public parks. Families can also visit the Temecula Children’s Museum.
8. Cars and Traffic
Like much of Southern California, Temecula’s roads can be quite congested. In addition, although the city does offer public transportation options, many people are car-dependent, and this can make getting around even more time-consuming.
Most places are not within walking or biking distance, as the city is relatively spread out. Avoiding rush hour can help you avoid traffic, however.
9. Taxes
Taxes in California are high no matter where you live in the state. You’ll need to pay a tiered California income tax on whatever you make.
Temecula also has high property and sales tax rates. In Temecula, you’ll need to pay 1.2% in property tax, which is one of the highest property tax rates in California.
You’ll also need to pay a sales tax of 8.75%.
10. Diversity and Religious Views
Although Temecula residents can be warm, friendly, and welcoming, how well you’re accepted into the community does depend somewhat on your religious views and political affiliations.
Most residents of Temecula are Christian and hold conservative political views. If you are not Christian or lean toward more liberal political views, you may experience some mild shunning.
Temecula also lacks diversity. An overwhelming percentage of the population is white.
11. Landscape and Outdoor Activities
One of the best things about Temecula and the surrounding area is the landscape. Although the city doesn’t have its own beaches, it does offer a range of nearby hills and deserts for visitors and residents to explore.
These diverse landscapes, plus several nearby national and state parks, provide incredible hiking, camping, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities, and the mild climate means that residents can take part in these activities throughout the year.
