Moreno Valley, located in Southern California’s Inland Empire, is a city of opportunity and suburban charm. With its growing job market, scenic mountain views, and access to outdoor recreation, it’s no wonder that many people dream of calling Moreno Valley home. However, life in this bustling city also comes with its own set of challenges. So whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in Edgemont or a cozy apartment in Hidden Springs, you’ve come to the right place.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Moreno Valley, helping you decide if this vibrant Southern California city is the right place for you.
Fast facts about living in Moreno Valley
- Known for: Expanding residential communities and affordable housing
- Fun fact: Moreno Valley is near Lake Perris, a popular spot for boating and camping
- Population: Approximately 210,000 residents
- Average rent: $1,951 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Median home sale price: $546,000
- Public parks: Over 30, including Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park
- Languages spoken: Predominantly English and Spanish
- Proximity to Los Angeles: About 65 miles east
- Restaurants: A mix of local dining spots and well-known chains
1. Pro: Affordable housing options
Moreno Valley is known for its relatively affordable housing, especially compared to nearby Los Angeles and Orange counties. The median sale price from a home in Moreno Valley is around $546,000, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Moreno Valley is approximately $1,951 per month. This affordability attracts those looking to live in Southern California without the high cost associated with coastal or metropolitan areas.
2. Con: Limited public transportation
Public transportation options in Moreno Valley are limited, with the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) offering some bus routes, but coverage may not reach all neighborhoods. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, which can lead to traffic congestion, especially for those commuting to nearby cities for work.
Moreno Valley transportation scores
- Walk score: 33
- Transit score: 26
- Bike score: 37
3. Pro: Growing job market
Moreno Valley’s job market is expanding, especially in sectors like logistics, healthcare, and retail. The city is home to distribution centers for Amazon, Walmart, and other major companies, providing numerous employment opportunities. Its proximity to Riverside and San Bernardino also widens career options for residents.
Top employers in Moreno Valley
- Amazon Fulfillment Center
- Riverside University Health System
- Walmart Distribution Center
- Moreno Valley Unified School District
- March Air Reserve Base
4. Con: Hot summer weather
Moreno Valley experiences hot, dry summers, with temperatures often reaching the high 90s and occasionally exceeding 100°F. The intense heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable during the peak summer months, and many residents rely on air conditioning, which can lead to higher utility bills.
5. Pro: Proximity to outdoor recreation
Moreno Valley offers easy access to a range of outdoor activities, with nearby locations like Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park and Lake Perris providing hiking, fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. The city’s natural surroundings and parks make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Popular outdoor recreation areas in Moreno Valley
- Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park
- Lake Perris State Recreation Area
- Sunnymead Park
- Fairway Park
- Hidden Springs Community Park
6. Con: Air quality issues
As part of the Inland Empire, Moreno Valley can experience poor air quality, particularly during the summer and wildfire season. Factors like vehicle emissions and seasonal weather patterns contribute to air pollution, which can impact residents with respiratory conditions.
7. Pro: Community-oriented amenities
Moreno Valley offers a range of community-oriented amenities, including parks, recreational centers, and sports leagues. The city hosts various events and provides programs for all ages, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for residents.
8. Con: Limited nightlife options
While Moreno Valley has a selection of local restaurants and bars, its nightlife options are relatively limited compared to nearby cities like Riverside or Los Angeles. Residents may need to travel outside the city for a broader range of evening entertainment options.
9. Pro: Strong sense of community
Moreno Valley is known for its close-knit community, with numerous local events, festivals, and farmers’ markets that foster a welcoming atmosphere. Events like the Moreno Valley Birthday Celebration and Winter Holiday Festival bring residents together and contribute to the city’s friendly spirit.
10. Con: Higher-than-average commute times
Due to its suburban location, many Moreno Valley residents commute to nearby cities for work, with average commute times often exceeding the national average. Traffic on the 215 and 60 Freeways can be heavy during peak hours, which can be challenging for those with daily commutes.
Popular cities and their average commute times from Moreno Valley
- Riverside: ~20 minutes
- San Bernardino: ~30 minutes
- Ontario: ~35 minutes
- Irvine: ~50 minutes
- Los Angeles: ~1 hour 20 minutes
11. Pro: Educational resources
Moreno Valley has a variety of educational institutions, including the Moreno Valley Unified School District and proximity to Riverside’s universities, such as UC Riverside and California Baptist University. The city also offers access to community colleges and trade schools, providing options for higher education.
12. Con: Retail and dining limitations
While Moreno Valley has a growing selection of shopping and dining options, the city’s offerings may feel limited compared to larger cities. Residents seeking extensive shopping districts or diverse dining experiences may need to travel to nearby Riverside or Ontario for more options.
13. Pro: Central location in Southern California
Moreno Valley’s central location in Southern California provides convenient access to major destinations. Residents can easily drive to Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Springs, making it an ideal base for day trips and weekend getaways.
14. Con: High utility costs
Due to the hot climate, residents of Moreno Valley often rely on air conditioning during the summer, leading to higher utility bills. California’s utility rates can also be above the national average, making energy expenses a notable part of the monthly budget for many households.
Pros & cons of living in Moreno Valley, CA (Summary)
- Pro: Affordable housing options
- Con: Limited public transportation
- Pro: Growing job market
- Con: Hot summer weather
- Pro: Proximity to outdoor recreation
- Con: Air quality issues
- Pro: Community-oriented amenities
- Con: Limited nightlife options
- Pro: Strong sense of community
- Con: Higher-than-average commute times
- Pro: Educational resources
- Con: Retail and dining limitations
- Pro: Central location in Southern California
- Con: High utility costs