Welcome to Perris, CA
Perris offers an unexpected blend of small-town charm and big-city proximity in Southern California’s Inland Empire. This rapidly growing city attracts families and professionals seeking affordable housing options while maintaining easy access to major employment centers in Riverside, San Bernardino, and even Orange County.
📍 Perris, CA at a Glance
- Population: 78,700
- Location: 70 miles southeast of Los Angeles, 18 miles south of Riverside
- Incorporated: 1911
- Known For: Perris Valley Skydiving, Lake Perris State Recreation Area, Southern California Railway Museum
🔗 Dive Deeper into Perris
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Perris leans slightly conservative with active civic engagement through neighborhood councils and community organizations. The city council meets twice monthly, and residents participate actively in local decision-making processes. Community events like the annual Perris Fiesta and holiday celebrations foster strong neighborhood connections.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Perris has seen improvements in public safety with increased police presence and community policing programs. The city’s crime rates have decreased over the past five years, though property crime remains slightly above the California average. Newer residential developments often feature gated communities with additional security measures.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
Local favorites include Alberto’s Mexican Food for authentic cuisine, Steer ‘n Stein for American fare, and Thai Chili for Asian options. The city lacks extensive nightlife but offers family-friendly entertainment at Perris Valley Storm baseball games and the nearby Perris Auto Speedway. Many residents venture to nearby Moreno Valley or Temecula for expanded dining and entertainment options.
🏛️ Local Government
Perris 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 CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department. The city has invested heavily in infrastructure improvements and economic development initiatives in recent years.
🚍 Transportation
Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with State Route 74 and Interstate 215 providing primary access. The Riverside Transit Agency offers limited bus service connecting to the Perris Transit Center. The Metrolink 91/Perris Valley Line provides commuter rail service to Riverside and eventually Los Angeles, making it increasingly viable for commuters.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Perris offers some of the most affordable housing in Southern California, with median home prices around $450,000. New construction dominates the market, featuring single-family homes in master-planned communities. Rental options include apartments and single-family homes, with average rents significantly below coastal California cities.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Lake Perris State Recreation Area serves as the crown jewel for outdoor enthusiasts, offering boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The city maintains 15 parks including Paragon Park with its sports facilities and Morgan Park featuring a skate park. The nearby San Bernardino National Forest provides additional hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities.
💼 Job Market
Major employers include Ross Distribution Center, Amazon fulfillment centers, and the Perris Valley Airport industrial area. The median household income is approximately $65,000. Many residents commute to jobs in Riverside, Moreno Valley, or Orange County, taking advantage of Perris’s lower housing costs.
🧑🏫 Education
Val Verde Unified School District serves most of Perris with several elementary schools, middle schools, and Perris High School. Private options include Perris Christian Academy and several charter schools. Mt. San Jacinto College operates a campus in nearby Menifee, while UC Riverside and Cal State San Bernardino are within commuting distance.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Perris enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers averaging 95°F and mild winters around 65°F. The area receives about 11 inches of rain annually, mostly between December and March. Summer heat can be intense, but the dry climate and cooler evenings provide relief.
💬 Community Sentiment
Long-time residents appreciate the small-town feel while acknowledging rapid growth brings both opportunities and challenges. Newcomers praise the affordability and family-friendly atmosphere but note the need for more local amenities. The community takes pride in its diversity and growing economic opportunities while working to preserve its agricultural heritage.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Perris
Perris attracts newcomers with its rare combination of affordable California living and strategic location between major job centers. Families appreciate the new schools, safe neighborhoods, and outdoor recreation opportunities, while first-time homebuyers find attainable homeownership in a state known for high housing costs. As the city continues developing its infrastructure and amenities, Perris represents an increasingly attractive option for those seeking the California dream without the typical price tag.