Welcome to Beaumont, CA
Nestled in the San Gorgonio Pass between the San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountain ranges, Beaumont offers an appealing blend of small-town charm and strategic location. This rapidly growing Riverside County community attracts families and professionals seeking affordable housing, stunning natural scenery, and easy access to both desert and mountain recreationβall while maintaining a relaxed pace of life away from the hustle of larger Southern California cities.
π Beaumont, CA at a Glance
- Population: 53,036
- Location: 26 miles west of Palm Springs, 80 miles east of Los Angeles
- Incorporated: 1912
- Known For: Cherry Festival, Highland Springs Ranch, gateway to desert and mountain recreation
π Dive Deeper into Beaumont
πΈ Cost & Budget
ποΈ Housing & Lifestyle
π Utilities & Transportation
ποΈ City Comparisons
π In-Depth Relocation Overview
π³οΈ Politics & Civic Life
Beaumont leans conservative with active community participation in local governance. The city council meets twice monthly, and residents engage through various committees including the Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation Commission. Local politics focus on managing growth while preserving the city’s small-town character.
π Crime & Safety
Beaumont maintains lower crime rates than many Riverside County cities, with property crime being the primary concern. The Beaumont Police Department provides 24/7 coverage and emphasizes community policing. Neighborhood watch programs are active throughout residential areas, particularly in newer developments.
π½οΈ Dining & Entertainment
While dining options are growing, local favorites include Las Flores Mexican Restaurant, Farm’s House Restaurant for American comfort food, and Noble Roman’s Pizza. The city hosts the annual Beaumont Cherry Festival in June, celebrating its agricultural heritage. For broader entertainment options, residents often head to nearby Cabazon outlets or Morongo Casino Resort.
ποΈ Local Government
Beaumont operates under a council-manager form of government with five elected council members. City services include their own police department, while fire protection is provided by Riverside County Fire Department. The city has focused on infrastructure improvements and managing residential growth through updated general plans.
π Transportation
Interstate 10 runs through Beaumont, providing the primary transportation corridor. Pass Transit offers limited local bus service connecting to Banning and Calimesa. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with commute times to Riverside averaging 35 minutes and Palm Springs 30 minutes. The city lacks direct access to Metrolink or other rail services.
ποΈ Housing & Real Estate
Beaumont’s housing market features newer developments with single-family homes dominating the landscape. Median home prices hover around $550,000, making it more affordable than coastal California communities. Popular neighborhoods include Sundance, Tournament Hills, and Highland Springs Ranch, offering various amenities and price points.
π³ Parks & Outdoor Life
Highland Springs Ranch serves as the recreational centerpiece with its 30-acre park, equestrian facilities, and community center. Noble Creek Regional Park offers hiking trails and picnic areas. The nearby San Bernardino National Forest and Mount San Jacinto State Park provide extensive outdoor recreation opportunities within a 30-minute drive.
πΌ Job Market
The median household income is approximately $78,000. Top employers include Beaumont Unified School District, the City of Beaumont, and Desert Lawn Memorial Park. Many residents commute to jobs in Riverside, San Bernardino, or the Coachella Valley. The local economy relies heavily on retail, services, and construction related to ongoing development.
π§βπ« Education
Beaumont Unified School District serves the area with several elementary schools, Beaumont Middle School, and Beaumont High School. Private options are limited but include Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School. For higher education, residents access Mt. San Jacinto College in nearby San Jacinto or commute to UC Riverside or Cal State San Bernardino.
π Climate & Weather
Beaumont enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s and occasionally exceed 100Β°F. Winters are pleasant with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s. The area receives about 16 inches of rain annually, mostly between December and March. The pass location creates occasional strong winds.
π¬ Community Sentiment
Long-time residents appreciate Beaumont’s small-town feel while acknowledging challenges from rapid growth. Newcomers praise the affordable housing and family-friendly atmosphere but note limited dining and entertainment options. Common concerns include traffic congestion on I-10 and the need for more local employment opportunities. Overall, residents value the community’s safety, natural beauty, and strategic location between desert and mountain attractions.
β¨ Why People Are Moving to Beaumont
Beaumont continues to attract new residents seeking an affordable slice of Southern California living without sacrificing quality of life. The combination of newer housing developments, mountain views, and proximity to both desert resorts and urban amenities makes it an increasingly popular choice for families and retirees. As the city carefully manages its growth while preserving its welcoming community spirit, Beaumont offers a compelling alternative for those ready to trade city stress for pass-area tranquility.