Complete city guide with real-time data from official US government sources.
Menifee is 7.9% more expensive than the national average. We calculate how much your salary "feels like" here.
This report analyzes the relocation viability of Menifee, California, based on current economic indicators, housing dynamics, and quality of life metrics. It is designed for the post-remote workforce prioritizing cost efficiency over urban density.
Menifee presents a specific economic profile characterized by a "sprawl premium." With a population of 113,425, it functions as a satellite city within the Inland Empire logistics hub. The median income stands at $82,402, which is 10.5% higher than the national average of $74,580. However, this income elevation is a statistical necessity rather than a wealth indicator, as the cost of living index for housing is 145.0—a staggering 45% above the national baseline.
The educational attainment gap is significant; only 23.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the US average of 33.1%. This suggests an economy driven by trade, logistics, and service sectors rather than high-tech or specialized white-collar industries.
Statistical Target Demographic: The data points to logistics professionals, remote workers seeking square footage, and young families prioritizing home size over urban amenities. This demographic accepts a 15-minute average commute increase in exchange for accessible homeownership.
The cost of living in Menifee is heavily skewed by utility and housing costs. While groceries and healthcare hover near the national average, electricity costs are the primary outlier, driven by Southern California Edison's tiered pricing and climate control needs.
| Category | Menifee Index (100 = US Avg) | Monthly Cost (Single) | Monthly Cost (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | 145.0 | $2,201 | $3,200 |
| Groceries | 104.7 | $350 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | 108.8 | $420 | $950 |
| Healthcare | 109.2 | $380 | $1,250 |
| Restaurants | 114.8 | $250 | $650 |
| Electricity | N/A (31.97¢/kWh) | $145 | $280 |
Disposable Income Analysis:
A single earner making the median $82,402 takes home approximately $62,000 annually after taxes ($5,166/mo). Subtracting the $2,201 rent and estimated living expenses of $1,800, the disposable income is roughly $1,165 monthly. This is tight compared to the national disposable average, indicating that the median income struggles against the inflated local costs.
Menifee's prices compared to national average (100 = US Average)
Source: BLS & BEA RPP (2025 Est.)
The housing market is the primary driver for relocation to Menifee. Despite being 45% more expensive than the national average, it remains significantly cheaper than neighboring Temecula or San Diego. The gap between the Housing Index (145.0) and the general Cost of Living suggests that while housing is expensive, the relative value per square foot is attractive for California.
| Metric | Menifee Value | US Average | Difference (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $615,000 | $412,000 | +49.3% |
| Price/SqFt | $340 | $250 | +36.0% |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,850 | $1,500 | +23.3% |
| Rent (3BR) | $3,200 | $2,400 | +33.3% |
| Housing Index | 145.0 | 100.0 | +45.0% |
Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
With a median home price of $615,000 and a 3BR rent of $3,200, the price-to-rent ratio is approximately 16. Generally, a ratio above 15 favors renting. However, given the +49.3% premium on home prices relative to the US average, buying is a hedge against future inflation rather than an immediate financial win. Renting is the financially safer option for those without a $123,000 down payment (20%).
RTO & Commute:
Menifee is a "commuter shed" city. With a local unemployment rate of 5.5% (vs US 4.0%), the local job market is insufficient for high-level professionals. The "Return to Office" (RTO) mandates have forced residents onto the I-15 and I-215 corridors.
Industry Stability:
The high unemployment rate (5.5%) indicates a lagging local economy. Residents relying on local employment face a 1.5% higher risk of joblessness than the national average. The economy is heavily reliant on the logistics corridor (Amazon, Walmart distribution centers) and healthcare services.
See how far your salary goes here vs other cities.
While the economic data presents challenges, the Quality of Life (QoL) metrics offer a nuanced view. The aggregate Health Score of 79.9/100 is respectable, masking underlying lifestyle risks.
| Metric | City Value | US Average | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Score | 79.9/100 | ~75.0 | GOOD |
| Obesity Rate | 35.9% | 31.9% | HIGH RISK |
| Diabetes Rate | 12.4% | 10.9% | HIGH RISK |
| Smoking Rate | 11.4% | 14.0% | LOW RISK |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 87 | 55 | MODERATE |
| PM2.5 Levels | 10.5 µg/m³ | 8.0 µg/m³ | ELEVATED |
| Unemployment | 5.5% | 4.0% | HIGH |
Safety Analysis:
Menifee is statistically safer than the US average regarding violent encounters but struggles with property crime.
Air Quality & Weather:
The AQI of 87 (Moderate) is driven by the 10.5 µg/m³ PM2.5 levels, typical for the Inland Empire due to trapped pollutants and regional traffic. The weather is arid; today’s clear conditions with a high of 67°F and low of 39°F represent the mild winter season. Summers regularly exceed 100°F, driving electricity costs to their peak.
Schools:
With lower educational attainment (23.8% college educated), the school district ratings vary. High-performing schools are typically found in the newer master-planned communities (Menifee Hills, Canyon Lake), while older sectors lag.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommendation:
Relocate to Menifee IF:
You are a remote worker with a coastal salary, or you work in the logistics/transportation industry. Do not move here seeking local career growth or a vibrant urban culture. It is a "bedroom community" optimized for housing volume and safety, at the expense of commute time and air quality.
1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Menifee?
For a single person, a salary of $95,000 is required to maintain a 20% savings rate after the estimated $4,500 monthly expenses (including rent).
2. How does the value compare to other inland cities?
Menifee offers better safety scores than San Bernardino (289 vs 980 violent crimes/100k) but is more expensive than Riverside. You pay a ~15% premium for the "suburban" feel.
3. Are the safety stats reliable?
Yes. The violent crime rate of 289/100k is objectively low, making it one of the safer cities in the Inland Empire. However, the high property crime rate (2,345/100k) requires vigilance regarding home security and vehicle safety.
4. Is the air quality dangerous?
The AQI of 87 is in the "Moderate" range. It is generally safe for most people but may trigger symptoms in those with respiratory sensitivities, particularly during summer heat inversions when PM2.5 levels spike above 12.0 µg/m³.
