Hi all, I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 0.8%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Calimesa sits at 242.5 per 100K. Poverty rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. With a population of 10,680, Calimesa is a small town. Homes are going for about $423,300 on average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Thoughts? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
0 upvotes
14 Replies
Brielle Thompson
Came here for weather and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The public transit is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
40 upvotes
Adeline
I work in retail here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Definitely worth checking out..
33 upvotes
Aubrey Long
I work in construction here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is excellent. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
Riley Miller
I'm a contractor and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
Adrian Reed
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 35, moved here 2 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Uptown and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good schools in most areas
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The pet-friendliness situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Chicago, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
24 upvotes
Sebastian P.
been saying this for years
24 upvotes
Everly
hard disagree but ok
23 upvotes
Hannah Mitchell
Used to live on the Pine Hills side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
22 upvotes
oaklanddude2025
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely better than expected and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Old Town) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Dallas, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
22 upvotes
Willow Evans
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great seafood places. it exceeded my expectations.
17 upvotes
Weston Chavez
as a local I can confirm
14 upvotes
Kayden K.
exactly what I was thinking
9 upvotes
Robert Gonzalez
Public transit is pretty good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
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