As your trusted real estate advisor here in the Inland Empire, I’m reaching out with both pep in my step and clarity in my voice, because navigating today’s market, especially in San Bernardino, Moreno Valley, Grand Terrace, and beyond, is no easy feat. Let’s dive into the current realities of renting versus buying, so you can make informed choices that align with your goals.
Renting: Still has a strong demand, although the demand is softening. Rising Costs for landlords are passed down to their tenants; such as the increase in property tax and property insurance.
Despite national softness in rental markets, the Inland Empire tells a different story. Mid 2025 figures show robust rent increases: Riverside is seeing rents around $3,150 for a three-bedroom single-family home, up 5.2% year over year. Ontario and Menifee are also on the rise, while Moreno Valley, a relatively “affordable” option still commands about $2,810 per month.
Still, the burden of rent is rising faster than paycheck growth. In Riverside County, nearly one in three renters now spend over 50% of their income on rent; Moreno Valley mirrors this trend. That can squeeze households in ways that homeownership, even with high monthly payments, might not.
Buying: Sky-High Payments and Affordability Hurdles have Buyers in the wait and see mode. Especially with foreclosures on the rise more product is becoming available and softening asking prices. Some buyers are looking for that big dip we have seen in the past. But don't bet on it!!! Investors still love the Inland Empire and will continue investing in what they perceive to be one of the best solid investments.
Therefore buying even with, monthly payments for mid tier homes in California are staggering over $5,900 per month in June 2025 an 82% jump since early 2020. Entry level homes aren’t much better, exceeding $3,600 a month. In the Inland Empire, median home prices are hovering around $600,000, with annual appreciation between 7% and 8%.
However Homeownership in the Inland Empire is also considered notably burdensome with mortgage obligations, taxes, Insurance, and maintenance now taking up about 67.8% of income in the Riverside San Bernardino metro areas, making it one of the country's most “over valued” markets. for some it might be best to wait for job stability, interest rates to adjust a bit more. However, with the recent devastation from fires and insurance companies vacating California the price of insurance alone has made buyers cautious or unable to qualify.
Homeownership is one of the biggest life changing decisions most people make, if successful it can be the best decision providing financial stability for years to come. However, if you stretch your financial muscle to far you may be unprepared for life's little hiccups, especially if you are unaware or lack foresight. Be sure to consult with other property owners to gain insight of what homeownership really means. Contact a REALTOR to learn the best path to take when your ready to accept the responsibility of home ownership.
State-Wide homeownership affordability across California is dropping rapidly, roughly 15% of households can afford to buy in 2025 (compared to 34% nationwide). Although the California affordability thesis recently reported that areas like the Inland Empire are still comparatively budget-friendly relative to coastal markets.
Overall, across 48 of 50 major U.S. metros, renting is now cheaper than buying, reinforcing that, for many, renting remains the safer, more flexible play.
So, What's the Best Move Right Now?
Renting may make sense if you want:
• Lower upfront costs • Flexibility to move (especially valuable given any job shifts).
• Relief from maintenance, property taxes, HOAs, and the financial burden of owning even if rent eats a good chunk of income.
Buying may make sense if you can:
• Afford significantly higher monthly payments (still often exceeding what rent costs).
• Commit long term to gain equity, leverage low inventory, and ride appreciation.
• Take advantage of the Inland Empire’s relative affordability, compared northern California and coastal areas.
In Summary
• Renting: offers mobility.
• Buying: offers long term investment.
Your reality matters: If your income supports it, and you plan to stay put, purchasing may yield long term wealth. If flexibility and financial breathing room are priorities, renting remains viable.
Let’s chart your strategy together whether you’re eyeing a cozy rental in Moreno Valley or thinking about planting roots in Redlands. I’m here to guide you with heart, honesty, and your best interests at the forefront.
You can reach me via email: MargieMillerYourRealtor.com