Southern California
Outdoor Recreation ● Stargazing ● Culinary Delights ● Resort Living
This region offers a unique blend of small-town charm and rugged inland living, all within a short drive of San Diego. Whether you're drawn to the wine country of Temecula Valley, the apple orchards and mountain scenery of Julian, or the family-friendly neighborhoods of Santee and Poway, this stretch of inland Southern California caters to a variety of lifestyles. With warm, sunny weather throughout the year, more affordable housing options compared to coastal San Diego, and access to stunning outdoor destinations like Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, CA-48 presents a compelling alternative to the crowded coastline.
Political Impact
House: District 48
After redistricting, the 2026 House race in California's 48th Congressional District is expected to be a toss up according to the Cook Political Report. The seat is held by a Republican and flipping it could be critical to turning the House blue.
Affordability
Housing costs in this region are significantly higher than the national average, likely due to the idyllic setting and the desirable community atmosphere. While other expenses like groceries and utilities might be slightly higher than the national norm because of the location, they don't drastically increase the overall cost of living.
See housing options in Murrieta →
See housing options in Temecula →
See housing options in Poway →
Highlighted Communities
Murrieta
Suburban ● $$$ ● Schools: A. ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average ● Airport: 30 - 60 Minutes
Living in Murrieta offers a taste of suburban comfort with deep roots in California ranching history. The city features a pleasing mix of master-planned neighborhoods, well-maintained parks, and a growing commercial corridor. While cattle ranches and hot springs once defined the landscape, Murrieta has evolved into one of the Inland Empire's fastest-growing suburban communities. Residents benefit from a prime location along the I-15 corridor, providing easy access to both San Diego and the greater Riverside County job market. The city's reputation as one of California's safest communities has become a point of local pride, drawing families seeking a quieter pace without sacrificing modern amenities. Though the city is largely car-dependent, Old Town Murrieta offers a walkable, charming core with local shops, restaurants, and a historic character that nods to its frontier past.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Temecula
Suburban ● $$$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport
Immerse yourself in the magic of Temecula, a Southern California gem where rolling vine-covered hills meet the warmth of a sun-soaked valley. Imagine waking up to sweeping views of the Santa Rosa Plateau, the morning mist lifting slowly over rows of meticulously tended grapevines as the day comes alive. Centuries of history linger along the brick-lined streets of Old Town, where rustic storefronts and Victorian-era buildings tell the story of a frontier past that still feels present today. This vibrant valley community welcomes a wonderfully diverse range of lifestyles. Whether you're a wine enthusiast eager to wander through world-class wineries and sample award-winning vintages, or an outdoor adventurer ready to explore the Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve and its breathtaking trails, Temecula has something waiting for you. Spend your afternoons hot air ballooning over golden vineyards, browsing artisan vendors at the weekly Old Town Farmer's Market, or teeing off on one of the valley's celebrated golf courses. As evening settles in, the valley takes on a romantic glow, with candlelit tasting rooms, rooftop dining, and the kind of unhurried nightlife that invites long conversations over a perfect glass of Cabernet. Discover acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants, a thriving arts and live music scene, and the warm, welcoming spirit of a community that has blossomed without ever losing its soul.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Diversity, LGBTQ+
Poway
Suburban ● $$$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average
Poway offers a unique suburban experience built around its celebrated identity as the "City in the Country." The city's design strikes a careful balance between residential comfort and wide open spaces, with residents enjoying access to hiking trails, equestrian paths, and the beloved Lake Poway for fishing, boating, and weekend picnics. This emphasis on outdoor living fosters a strong sense of community, with local events and gatherings drawing neighbors together throughout the year.
Poway's semi-rural character lends it a distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from the denser suburbs surrounding San Diego. Residents frequently point to the well-regarded school district, low crime rates, and neighborly feel as defining qualities of life here. While Poway is not a major commercial hub, its modest but functional mix of local shops, restaurants, and small businesses along Poway Road means most daily needs are met close to home. The trade-off is a quieter, more spacious lifestyle where the priority is green space, good schools, and a genuine small-town feel within easy reach of a world-class city.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Diversity
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