Living San Bernardino Valley (San Bernardino, Redlands, Loma Linda, Highland, Colton, Grand Terrace): A Guide for Newcomers
The Vibe of the San Bernardino Valley
The San Bernardino Valley has historic character, strong local identity, and economic diversity. Redlands and Loma Linda offer walkable pockets with tree-lined neighborhoods and college-town energy, while San Bernardino is one of the region’s oldest cities, full of potential but still facing infrastructure and safety challenges. The valley feels older and more lived-in than many parts of the Inland Empire, and often more affordable.
Major Cities/Neighborhoods of the San Bernardino Valley
- San Bernardino – A large, diverse city with historic roots, civic challenges, and areas of slow revitalization near downtown and the university.
- Redlands – Tree-lined streets, Victorian homes, a charming downtown, and one of the Inland Empire’s most established cultural centers.
- Loma Linda – Anchored by Loma Linda University Medical Center, this health-centric city draws medical professionals and graduate students.
- Highland & Colton – More suburban, affordable areas with mountain access and growing master-planned developments.
- Grand Terrace – Small-town feel with hillside homes and quick freeway access.
Why It Works
- Redlands and Loma Linda are walkable, charming, and community-oriented.
- Proximity to the mountains, Big Bear, and outdoor recreation.
- Affordable housing options, especially for first-time buyers and renters.
- Medical and education hubs around Loma Linda and Cal State San Bernardino.
- Great location for access to the 10 and 210 freeways, and Metrolink to L.A.
Watch Out For
- San Bernardino still struggles with economic inequality, infrastructure issues, and crime in some neighborhoods.
- School quality is very mixed — research by district and street.
- Some areas feel underdeveloped compared to booming parts of the Inland Empire.
- You’ll need a car unless you're based near downtown Redlands or the university campuses.
Good Fit For
- Buyers and renters looking for affordability with mountain access and character.
- Healthcare workers, med students, and professionals at Loma Linda or Arrowhead Regional.
- Young families and first-time buyers willing to renovate or invest in emerging areas.
- Outdoor lovers who want proximity to hiking, biking, and mountain escapes.
Things to Do
- Downtown Redlands – Farmers market, breweries, restaurants, and summer concert series.
- Loma Linda hiking trails, Prospect Park, and San Bernardino’s Glen Helen Amphitheater.
- Access to Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and San Bernardino National Forest.
- Cultural events like the Redlands Bowl concerts and Route 66 Rendezvous.
- New Redlands rail trail and revitalized transit corridor underway.
Housing Snapshot
Type: Older ranch homes, mid-century neighborhoods, historic Victorians, apartments near campuses, new tract homes in Highland.
Buy:
- Redlands: $550K–$850K
- Loma Linda: $500K–$750K
- San Bernardino: $375K–$600K
- Highland/Colton: $450K–$700K
- Grand Terrace: $475K–$750K
Rent:
- 1BR apartment: $1,400–$2,000
- 3BR homes: $2,200–$3,200
Commute & Transit
- Major roads: I-10, I-210, and I-215 all intersect here.
- Metrolink service from San Bernardino Transit Center and Redlands-Downtown station.
- Easy drives to Redlands, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and Highland job centers.
- Public buses exist, but car is still the default for most errands and commutes.
Is the San Bernardino Valley Area Right for You?
If you're looking for affordability, historic charm, and mountain access — and you're open to a mix of established and evolving communities — the San Bernardino Valley can be a solid fit. Redlands and Loma Linda are the standouts, while other areas offer potential and budget value.
If you want to expand your search to the greater metro, check out the LookyLOO Review of the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario Metro.