Inland Empire

Neighborhoods: Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Chino, Eastvale, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, and beyond

Fedora’s Foodie Favorites: Avocado House, Gen Korean BBQ House, The Boiler, Cannataro’s Italian Restaurant, Pomona Valley Mining Company, Take Ur Seat, Roll Em Up Taquitos, Dirty Penguin, Curry India Bistro, Julie’s Cafe, Sushi Martini, Paul Martin’s

We’re not in Kansas anymore, but no need to fret. Situated about 60 miles inland from LA and the Pacific Ocean—hence the name—the Inland Empire, or affectionately known as the IE, is part of San Bernardino and Riverside County. When thinking about living here, the real question is: where exactly? The IE is vast and each neighborhood has its own personality, so we’ll overgeneralize here just a bit and provide the highlights.

1) It’s affordable! Commonly referred to as a bedroom community (aka a suburb where most people commute to a nearby city for work), you can actually enjoy living here without suffering through the painful housing market that you’d experience closer to LA.

2) Remember The Truman Show? So imagine that, but the people are real and no one is directing your life. 😛 This is the place where everyone says hello to each other during their morning walks, your neighbors actually know your name, and people look out for one another. Take your pick of gorgeous nature trails and award-winning schools in different neighborhoods — oh, and did we mention? How awesome is free parking everywhere (and plenty of it, actually)! Plus there’s always a Target, Walmart, and Costco nearby for triple the convenience.

3)  It’s hotter. We’re talking more desert vibes, especially as you get closer to San Bernardino, but don’t let that deter you. The IE is also home to amazing mountains, like Mt. Baldy and the San Bernardino Mountains, where you can hike, shred the slopes, or enjoy some glorious waterfront time at Big Bear. With the great outdoors all around, you can opt for a more relaxed and slower pace of life.

Median Home Prices:

Image source: City of Chino Hills