The Inland Empire area of Southern California includes more than 27,000 square miles of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties just east of Los Angeles. The expansive region features landscapes such as sunny valleys, lush forests, and scenic deserts, with orange groves and vineyards poised alongside rolling mountain ranges. With the beaches and culture of Los Angeles just two hours away, the Inland Empire can feel like a quiet escape from the city still within reach of everything it has to offer.
While the Inland Empire used to be an insider’s secret in Southern California, more and more active adult homebuyers and retirees are deciding to settle in the area. The Inland Empire now includes 26 active adult communities, making it a top SoCal retirement destination.
With desirable weather, a reasonable cost of living for the state, and the availability of competitively priced homes, there are plenty of reasons why active adults move here. Let’s take a deeper look as to why active adults choose to spend their retirement in the Inland Empire.
A Mediterranean Climate
The climate of the Inland Empire can vary greatly throughout the region, but it generally follows a Mediterranean climate. This comfortable climate is characterized by rainier winters and drier summers. But even with winter rain, the area only tends to get about 15 inches of rain each year, compared to the U.S. average of 39 inches each year. The weather from summer to early fall tends to feel warm and dry, while fall through spring brings the wet season with cooler temperatures and mild rain.
According to U.S. Climate data, the average temperature in the area reaches around 65 degrees, with the average low temperature near 51 degrees and the average high at 79 degrees. However, these averages vary greatly within the Inland Empire due to its diverse geography and elevations.
The Inland Empire includes areas with elevations that range from 11,499 feet at the top of the San Gorgonio Mountain to below 220 feet at the Salton Sea. The mountain regions tend to experience cooler temperatures, while the valleys tend to have warmer weather. Overall, active adults who live in the Inland Empire can enjoy pleasant, mild temperatures throughout the year.
