Murrieta, California, a city of roughly 118,000 people located in Riverside County, has become increasingly famous in recent years due to its remarkable growth, award-winning schools, and world-class amenities. The city is easily accessible to the Inland Empire and the San Diego and Orange County metropolitan areas, establishing itself as a center of regional and national significance. Learn more here.
Murrieta was established in the late 1870s, shortly after the arrival of the railroad. The city was initially a largely agricultural community, but its commercial and residential development began in the mid-1980s, with the growth of inland cities such as Murrieta. Many see Murrieta as a reflection of its larger county—Riverside—which has seen tremendous growth over the past few decades. Indeed, Murrieta’s population increased fivefold to over 111,000 people between the years 2000 and 2013. Academically, Murrieta is one of the strongest school districts in California, with the majority of its schools ranking in the top 10 percent of the state. Students in Murrieta Valley Unified School District consistently perform at the highest level on California’s academic proficiency tests, and a number of Murrieta schools have also been named California Distinguished Schools. Learn more about Winchester, California: An Adventure Lover’s Paradise.
Murrieta also features a close-knit community where knowledge and resources can easily be shared among professionals, families, and organizations. Businesses, universities, and regional organizations all have offices and headquarters throughout Murrieta, and the city is home to several noteworthy events, such as the Hot Air Balloon & Wine Festival and the Murrieta Equestrian Center, the largest of its kind in the Southwest. In addition to its wealth of educational, professional, and recreational opportunities, Murrieta is one of the few cities with a strong sense of history and culture. The city celebrates its heritage with a series of special events and activities, including a weekly farmers’ market, a central park for family activity, and a number of outdoor recreation areas such as the Murrieta Creek Trail. Residents also benefit from the presence of several nearby wineries, as well as a number of art galleries and entertainment venues.
Murrieta’s regional and national significance is further amplified by its proximity to a variety of other important cities, including Temecula, Temecula Valley Wine Country, and Lake Elsinore. With direct access to the I-15 and the I-215 freeways, residents of Murrieta are well-connected to the larger metro region. Increasingly, Murrieta is being recognized as a city of unique importance in California and beyond. The city continues to attract new businesses, families, and professionals, as it offers a level of amenities, services, and infrastructure unique to the area. Many individuals find that Murrieta comfortably combines a relaxed atmosphere with world-class amenities, making it an ideal place to live and work, regardless of what one might seek in a home or job.
Murrieta’s beautiful mountains provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the diverse local terrain. The Santa Rosa Plateau is a great place to hike, with trails that pass through different types of wildflower-covered hills and meadows. The hills of Murrieta also provide plenty of opportunities for mountain biking enthusiasts of all levels. Nature lovers will be thrilled to explore the miles of trails through the sprawling forests of the area.
