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Moreno Valley, California

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

48
Overall Score

Moreno Valley, California, is a dynamic city situated in the heart of the Inland Empire, known for its strategic location and growing community. Incorporated in 1984, it is one of Riverside County's younger cities, which is reflected in its modern infrastructure and master-planned communities. The city's appeal lies in its blend of suburban living with convenient access to major employment hubs in Los Angeles and Orange County via the 60 and 215 freeways. This accessibility, combined with relatively more affordable housing options compared to other parts of Southern California, attracts families and individuals seeking a balance between urban amenities and a relaxed lifestyle. Moreno Valley continues to evolve, driven by ongoing economic development and a diverse population.

About California

California is a diverse and populous state known for its significant economic output, ranking as the fourth largest economy globally if it were an independent nation. Its economy is driven by major industries such as technology (especially in Silicon Valley), real estate, finance, professional services, manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. Living in California generally entails a high cost of living, particularly for housing, which is significantly above the national average. The state boasts a varied climate, ranging from a Mediterranean-like environment with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters in coastal and central areas, to hotter, drier inland summers and colder, snowier conditions at higher altitudes. The lifestyle often emphasizes outdoor activities, health and wellness, and a diverse cultural experience, though it can also involve considerable traffic in major urban centers.

215,549
Population
$59K
Avg Salary
117
Cost Index
48.0
Quality Score
How this 48/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 55 / 100 55.0 30% 16.5
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 117.0 22.5 25% 5.6
Economy & jobs Median household income: $93,222 Income needed to live here: $70,000 Unemployment rate: 5% 64.5 20% 12.9
Growth Population growth rate: 0.6% Job growth rate: no usable reading 40.0 15% 6.0
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 70.0 10% 7.0
Overall score 48.0

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=80), last refreshed 17 August 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Moreno Valley

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Quality Scores

Business
70
Livability
65
Affordability
60
Growth
70

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Moreno Valley is notably higher than the national average, standing at 17% above the U.S. average as of 2026. This makes it one of the more expensive cities in the United States, though it remains more affordable than the California state average. Housing costs are a primary driver of the elevated cost of living, with both median home prices and rental rates exceeding national averages. Additionally, transportation expenses and food prices contribute to the overall higher cost, with groceries being about 10.5% above the national average. Despite these costs, Moreno Valley offers a more financially accessible entry point into the Southern California real estate market compared to neighboring coastal areas.

Average Rent
$1,881/mo
Groceries
$413/mo
Transport
$410/mo
Utilities
$180/mo
Healthcare
$302/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$20.00
Cinema ticket
$15.25
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$22.00
Monthly groceries
$413.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Moreno Valley's economy is characterized by its robust industrial sector, particularly in logistics, warehousing, and distribution, benefiting from its strategic location at the intersection of major freeways. The city is home to significant industrial hubs, fostering steady employment opportunities. While the employed population saw a 3.6% one-year growth in 2024, more recent data from June 2026 indicates a slight decline of 1.38% in employment from the previous year. Healthcare and retail trade also represent substantial employment sectors within the city and the broader California economy. The city actively promotes new development, suggesting a positive outlook for business growth and a dynamic job market, even with recent fluctuations in employment figures.

The average salary in Moreno Valley is $58,932 per year. You would need approximately $70,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade +1.00% Education +0.80% Healthcare & Social Assistance +1.50% Construction +2.20% Logistics & Warehousing +2.00%

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
60.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Transportation in Moreno Valley is heavily reliant on personal vehicles, as indicated by a walk score of 0 out of 100, signifying a car-dependent environment. The city's infrastructure is designed around its freeway access, with the 60 and 215 freeways providing crucial links to nearby employment centers in Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange County. The average commute time for residents is approximately 30 minutes. While public transit options exist, the low walkability score suggests that they are not the primary mode of transportation for most residents. The city's layout and the distances between amenities necessitate car ownership for daily errands and commuting.

30 min
Avg Commute
20.00/10
Transit Score
/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
More affordable housing market compared to other major Southern California cities, with median home prices significantly lower than Murrieta and Temecula.
Strategic location with direct freeway access to Los Angeles and Orange County, offering shorter commute times for many.
Growing industrial sector, particularly in logistics and warehousing, providing steady employment opportunities.
Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, conducive to outdoor activities year-round.
Diverse and relatively young population, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
Drawbacks
Cost of living is 17% higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing and transportation costs.
Higher violent and property crime rates compared to national averages.
Heavily car-dependent city with a walk score of 0, necessitating a car for most daily activities.
Recent job growth has seen a decline of 1.38% in employment from June 2025 to June 2026.
School performance and safety statistics reportedly lag behind some neighboring cities like Murrieta and Temecula.

Questions about Moreno Valley

What people ask about living in and moving to Moreno Valley, California.

How does the cost of living in Moreno Valley compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Moreno Valley’s cost‑of‑living index is 117, meaning it is about 17 % higher than the U.S. national average of 100. This higher index reflects increased housing costs, slightly higher transportation expenses, and typical California price levels for groceries and services. While rent is a major driver, other categories such as healthcare and utilities also tend to be above the national norm. Use a cost‑of‑living calcu...

What is the average salary in Moreno Valley and what industries dominate? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

The average annual salary in Moreno Valley is $58,932. The local economy is anchored by logistics, manufacturing, and retail, with many positions in distribution centers, light industrial firms, and service‑sector businesses. There are also growing opportunities in healthcare and education. For entry‑level roles, search job boards that filter by industry and use the city’s economic development website for a list of m...

How are public schools rated in Moreno Valley? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Moreno Valley are administered by the local school district, which provides performance data on its website, including test scores and graduation rates. Overall, the district’s ratings are mixed, with some schools performing at or above state averages and others below. To evaluate specific schools, review the state education department’s school report cards and visit the district’s portal for enroll...

Is Moreno Valley considered a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Moreno Valley has a safety score of 55 out of 100, indicating moderate safety concerns compared with other U.S. cities. Crime rates are higher than the national average, especially for property‑related offenses. Neighborhood safety can vary widely, with some areas experiencing lower incident rates than others. To assess a specific location, consult the city’s police department crime maps, review recent reports on the...

What public transportation options are available in Moreno Valley? Getting Around 1 answer

Moreno Valley is served by a regional transit authority that operates bus routes connecting the city to nearby employment centers, shopping districts, and transit hubs. Service frequency varies by line, with higher frequency during peak commuting hours. For longer trips, the transit authority links to commuter rail stations in adjacent cities. You can view schedules, route maps, and fare information on the agency’s w...

Where can I find hospitals or urgent care in Moreno Valley? Healthcare 1 answer

The city hosts several medical facilities, including a major hospital that provides emergency services, surgery, and specialized care, as well as smaller urgent‑care clinics and primary‑care practices scattered throughout the area. To locate a provider that matches your insurance and health needs, use the state health department’s provider directory or the hospital system’s website, which lists locations, hours, and...

What recreational activities are popular in Moreno Valley? Things to Do 1 answer

Moreno Valley offers a variety of outdoor and cultural amenities. The city maintains several parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and hiking trails, as well as a community recreation center that hosts classes, swimming pools, and seasonal events. Nearby regional parks provide opportunities for biking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. For indoor entertainment, there are public libraries with programs for all ag...

What should I know about utilities and services when moving to Moreno Valley? Moving Here 1 answer

When you move to Moreno Valley, you’ll need to arrange for electricity, natural gas, water, and waste services through the city’s utility providers. Most utilities can be set up online or by phone; you’ll typically need a copy of your lease or property deed, a photo ID, and a deposit if you have no credit history. Internet and cable services are offered by several regional providers; compare plans for speed and price...

What’s the overall quality of life like in Moreno Valley? General 1 answer

Moreno Valley offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared with many coastal Southern California cities, with an average rent of $1,881 and a median salary of $58,932. The city’s moderate safety score suggests that some neighborhoods are safer than others, so location matters. Residents benefit from access to parks, a growing job market in logistics and manufacturing, and regional transit connections. Howev...

What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Moreno Valley? Housing 1 answer

According to recent data, the average rent in Moreno Valley is about $1,881 per month. This figure reflects a mix of one‑bedroom units, larger apartments, and single‑family homes across the city. Prices can vary depending on the neighborhood, age of the building, and amenities offered. To get a more precise estimate for a specific area, check online rental listings, contact local property managers, or use the city’s...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Moreno Valley? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

California FAQ answer

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.
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