What’s the Inland Empire & Should I Move There?

Amidst the embrace of Southern California's majestic mountains, sprawling deserts, and fertile valleys lies a major metropolitan area known as the Inland Empire. Here, the tranquility of nature and the opportunity of bustling cities meet to weave a unique tapestry composed of diverse cultures, thriving industries, and endless possibilities. 

This informative guide dives into the essence of California’s Inland Empire, exploring its vibrant cities, cost of living, and employment and education opportunities. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this charismatic community and start daydreaming about making the Inland Empire your new home. 

Ready to make your move? Explore dream homes near the Inland Empire. 

Where is the Inland Empire in California?

California’s Inland Empire is part of the greater Los Angeles area but is located east of Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Orange County and far south of the Central Valley. While no universally accepted boundaries have been defined, most sources refer to the Inland Empire as the cities within Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Other publications and reports also extend the Inland Empire to include the desert communities of Coachella and Victor Valley. The U.S. Census Bureau does not reference the Inland Empire in its reports but does define the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario Metropolitan area as a statistically significant region. 

When defined to encompass California’s desert communities, the Inland Empire’s combined land area is larger than the total land area of 10 U.S. states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia.

Counties of the Inland Empire: Riverside

Named for its proximity to the Santa Ana River, Riverside County is a 7,208-square-mile region that spreads from the eastern reaches of greater Los Angeles to the Arizona border. The county is prominently a land of contrast, as it supports bustling urban centers, such as Temecula and Corona, and 19 official wilderness areas protected by the National Wilderness Preservation System, including a section of Joshua Tree National Park.

Riverside County is also home to several thriving communities, each offering a unique selection of career, education, and entertainment opportunities. The most popular cities of Riverside County include: 

• Corona
• Indio
• Lake Elsinore
• Menifee
• Moreno Valley
• Murrieta
• Palm Desert
• Palm Springs
• Riverside
• Temecula

Counties of the Inland Empire: San Bernardino

Spanning over 20,000 square miles, San Bernardino County is the largest county in the contiguous United States, and it supports a diverse blend of natural beauty, urban innovation, and rich cultural heritage. At the heart of the county lies the city of San Bernardino, the county seat and a dynamic metropolitan center pulsing with energy and promise. A portion of the famous highway, Route 66, also runs through San Bernardino. Beyond the urban sprawl, San Bernadino County also supports a breathtaking assortment of geographic features, including the towering peaks of Mount San Gorgonio and San Jacinto. 

Various communities make up the vast canvas of San Bernadino County. Prominent cities in the area include:  

• Chino
• Chino Hills
• Fontana
• Hesperia
• Ontario
• Rancho Cucamonga
• Redlands
• Rialto
• San Bernardino
• Victorville
• Upland
• Highland

Life in the Inland Empire 

From its bustling city centers to serene natural environments, the Inland Empire offers an enticing way of life, welcoming families migrating in search of affordable housing. Whether you’ve got your eye on its thriving job market, top-notch education opportunities, or limitless splendor, the Inland Empire is ripe with possibilities for those looking to call the region home. 

What’s the Cost of Living in the Inland Empire?

The cost of living in the Inland Empire varies from one city to the next. According to BestPlaces, a website specializing in comprehensive city reports, San Bernardino County is 18.3% less expensive than Riverside County. Both counties have a cost of living that is more expensive than the national average. Using 100 to represent the national average, cities in San Bernardino County scored a cost of living score of 118.6, while Riverside’s cities recorded a score of 131.2.

Here’s how the cost of living in San Bernardino and Riverside counties compares to major cities around the United States:

* Source: BestPlaces (100 represents the national average)

What Employment Opportunities Are Present in the Inland Empire?

Known for its diverse economy, the Inland Empire offers employment opportunities across various industries, attracting professionals with diverse skill sets and interests. Some of the major employment sectors found in the Inland Empire include:

• Healthcare
• Retail trade
• Education
• Manufacturing
• Construction 
• Real estate
• Transportation

Riverside and San Bernardino counties are excellent places to find work, with projected job growth rates significantly higher than the national average. Here’s how the Inland Empire’s projected job growth compares to other regions around the country:

* Source: BestPlaces (30.54% is the national average)

However, unemployment is a notable concern in the Inland Empire’s job market. Unemployment rates throughout the Inland Empire are significantly higher than the national average of 4.2 percent. For example, the average unemployment rate for Riverside and San Bernardino counties is 5.5 percent. The following chart highlights how the Inland Empire’s unemployment rate compares to unemployment rates in cities across the nation:

* Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

What’s Education Like in the Inland Empire?

The quality of education in the Inland Empire varies throughout different communities and cities, primarily based on the level of education, resource availability, poverty levels, and funding. In prominent cities like Riverside and San Bernardino, where resources, funding, and experienced teachers are more abundant, the quality of education tends to be excellent. However, education opportunities are generally more limited throughout the Inland Empire’s rural and underserved areas. 

The following table highlights some of the highest-rated K-12 school districts in the Inland Empire.

* Source: Niche

In terms of higher education, the Inland Empire is home to several universities and colleges that offer graduate and undergraduate-level programs. The two most prominent universities are the University of California - Riverside and California State University - San Bernardino. Both of these two universities offer a diverse array of degrees and educational programs. Other institutions in the Inland Empire include the University of Redlands, Loma Linda University, and California Baptist University. 

What is the Housing Market Like in the Inland Empire?

The housing market in the Inland Empire has experienced recent fluctuations based on demand and inventory. During population booms, housing options in the area are more limited, and housing prices increase. Overall, housing in the Inland Empire is more affordable than other regions of Southern California’s housing market and more expensive than the U.S. median of $338,100. 

Here’s how housing costs in San Bernardino and Riverside compare to housing costs around the nation: 

* Source: BestPlaces

And here’s how rental costs in San Bernardino and Riverside compare to housing costs around the nation:

* Source: BestPlaces

What Is There to Do in the Inland Empire? 

Inland Empire residents have a front-row seat to endless recreational and entertainment options that cater to diverse interests, including outdoor recreation, arts, and cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the region’s diverse natural beauty by hiking through San Bernardino National Forest or San Bernardino Mountains, camping in Joshua Tree National Park, or fishing on Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear Lake. 

For individuals seeking cultural or culinary experiences, the Inland Empire is home to several excellent museums and a diverse range of restaurants. The most popular museums in the area are the Riverside Art Museum and the Ontario Museum of History & Art. 

Offering a unique blend of outdoor, cultural, and dining experiences, the Inland Empire is a perfect destination for individuals of all ages. 

Exploring California’s Inland Empire

From promising job opportunities to affordable housing and endless entertainment, there are many reasons to call the Inland Empire home. If you’re considering moving to the Inland Empire, consider researching career and education opportunities related to your specific skill set, interests, and needs. And when it comes to housing, we have you covered!

Here at Century Communities, we offer a hands-on homebuying process—uniquely tailored to your needs and lifestyle—providing guidance on neighborhood amenities, smart home technologies, home loans, and more. We’re committed to delivering the quality home you’ve been dreaming of. If you’re searching for a house in the Inland Empire, check out our new homes available in the area today! 

Inland Empire, California FAQ

What Counties Are in the Inland Empire? 

Southern California’s Inland Empire includes San Bernardino and Riverside County. This large metropolitan area is located east of Los Angeles and Orange counties and the greater Los Angeles Metropolitan Area and north of San Diego County.

What Cities Are in the Inland Empire? 

The Inland Empire is made up of many cities located throughout San Bernardino and Riverside County. The most popular cities in Riverside County include Riverside, Corona, Indio, Lake Elsinore, Palm Springs, Menifee, Moreno Valley, Temecula, and Murrieta. The most popular cities in San Bernardino County include San Bernardino, Chino, Chino Hills, Fontana, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and Redlands. Some definitions of the Inland Empire area also include the desert communities of Coachella and Victor Valley. Other definitions include La Verne, San Dimas, and other cities throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

What is the Inland Empire Famous for?

The Inland Empire region has been famous for many things throughout history. The area is well known for once being the home of various Native Americans, including the Tongva, Taaqtam, and Ivilyuqaletem tribes. The Inland Empire was also called the Orange Empire due to the vast amounts of citrus trees that once extended across the land. Today, the Inland Empire is known for being a major center of industry progress and natural beauty.