Cost of Living in Hemet, CA: Full 2025 Breakdown

Hemet is considered relatively affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,450 per month and utility costs slightly below the national average.

Housing Costs in Hemet

Housing options in Hemet range from apartments and condos to single-family homes. Typical rent for a 2-bedroom apartment falls between $1,300 and $1,600 per month, with a median around $1,450. Buying a 3-bedroom house usually costs between $350,000 and $450,000.

Neighborhoods like Seven Hills and Green Acres tend to have higher housing costs, while areas like Valle Vista and Winchester offer more affordable options. HOA fees are common in some planned communities, adding $200-400 to monthly housing expenses.

• 2-bedroom apartment rent: $1,300 – $1,600/month
• 3-bedroom house purchase price: $350,000 – $450,000
• Typical HOA fees: $200 – $400/month

Utilities and Energy Bills

Basic utility costs in Hemet, including electric, gas, water, and trash, average around $180 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Expect higher cooling costs in the summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.

Groceries and Daily Expenses

The average grocery bill for a single person in Hemet is around $300 per month, not including dining out. A gallon of milk costs about $3.50, a loaf of bread is $2.30, and a dozen eggs are $2.00. Budget an extra $200-300 per month for occasional meals out.

Here’s an example of a typical grocery basket:

• Gallon of milk: $3.50
• Loaf of bread: $2.30
• Dozen eggs: $2.00
• 5 lbs potatoes: $3.00
• 1 lb chicken breast: $4.50

Taxes and Hidden Fees

Hemet’s property tax rate is around 1.25% of assessed value. For a $400,000 home, that equates to about $5,000 per year or $417 per month. California also has a 7.75% sales tax on most purchases. Vehicle registration fees average $200 per year.

Monthly Budget Summary

These estimates include housing, utilities, groceries, dining out, transportation, and some discretionary spending. They do not include savings, debt payments, or major purchases. All figures are gross monthly income (pre-tax).

Lifestyle Considerations

Hemet offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other Southern California cities. However, tradeoffs include longer commute times for those working in larger job centers like Riverside or San Bernardino. Most homes are older, with limited new construction.

On the plus side, Hemet provides access to plenty of parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation. Diamond Valley Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The city also has a growing arts scene centered around the Historic Hemet Theatre.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Hemet?
  A gross monthly income of at least $3,000 for a single person or $4,500 for a couple is recommended to cover basic expenses and allow for some discretionary spending.
• Is Hemet cheaper than nearby cities like Riverside or Temecula?
  Yes, the cost of living in Hemet is generally 10-20% lower than in Riverside and Temecula, especially when it comes to housing.
• What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Hemet?
  Higher-than-expected utility bills (especially in summer), HOA fees in some neighborhoods, and California’s high sales tax rate often catch transplants off guard.
• Are there any income-restricted housing options in Hemet?
  Yes, the Hemet Housing Authority offers several affordable housing complexes for low-income households, seniors, and people with disabilities. Rent is typically capped at 30% of income.
• What’s the job market like in Hemet?
  The largest employers are in healthcare, retail, and education. Commuting to Riverside or San Bernardino opens up more job opportunities. Remote work is also increasingly common.