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Moving to Lemoore: What to Know

An introduction to Lemoore, California for people considering a move to the area.

December 1, 2023·By Greg Franklin
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Moving to Lemoore: What to Know

Lemoore is a small city in Kings County, California, in the heart of the Central Valley. Whether you're coming for NAS Lemoore, agriculture, or the affordable cost of living, here's what to know about the community.

Location and Geography

Lemoore sits in California's San Joaquin Valley:

  • 30 miles south of Fresno
  • 200 miles north of Los Angeles
  • 180 miles south of Sacramento
  • 150 miles southeast of San Jose

The terrain is flat agricultural land. The Sierra Nevada mountains are visible to the east on clear days.

Climate

Central Valley climate means:

  • Hot, dry summers: Expect 100°F+ days from June through September
  • Mild winters: Frost possible, but snow is extremely rare
  • Tule fog: Dense fog from November through February can affect visibility
  • Low humidity: Even hot days feel different than humid climates

NAS Lemoore

Naval Air Station Lemoore is the largest master jet base on the West Coast and a major economic driver:

  • Home to strike fighter squadrons
  • Significant civilian employment
  • Many residents work on base or support it
  • Active military community

If you're PCSing to NAS Lemoore, you'll find a community that understands military life.

Cost of Living

Compared to California's coastal cities, Lemoore offers significant affordability:

  • Housing: Median home prices well below state averages
  • No state income tax on military retirement
  • Lower overall cost of living than Bay Area, LA, or San Diego
  • Agricultural surroundings mean fresh, affordable produce

Housing Market

The Lemoore housing market offers:

  • Single-family homes as the predominant housing type
  • Mix of newer developments and established neighborhoods
  • Various price points to accommodate different budgets
  • Relatively short commutes due to city size

Schools

Lemoore is served by:

  • Lemoore Union Elementary School District (K-8)
  • Lemoore Union High School District (9-12)

School ratings and specific information change over time—research current data when considering schools.

Amenities and Recreation

What's available locally:

  • Lemoore Golf Course
  • City parks and recreation programs
  • Sarah A. Mooney Memorial Museum
  • Youth sports programs
  • Community events throughout the year

For more amenities, Fresno (30 minutes north) and Visalia (20 minutes south) offer additional shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Nearby Attractions

The Central Valley location provides access to:

  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (1-1.5 hours)
  • Yosemite National Park (2-2.5 hours)
  • Pacific Coast beaches (2-3 hours)
  • Fresno for shopping, dining, events

Economy

Beyond NAS Lemoore, the local economy includes:

  • Agriculture (dairy, cotton, almonds, and more)
  • Agricultural support services
  • Retail and service industries
  • Government employment

Community Character

Lemoore has a small-town feel:

  • Population around 27,000
  • Close-knit community
  • Slower pace than urban areas
  • Agricultural heritage
  • Strong military presence

Things to Consider

Be aware of:

  • Distance from major cities: Entertainment and specialty shopping require driving
  • Summer heat: Air conditioning is essential
  • Agricultural surroundings: Dust, crop burning, and farming operations are part of life
  • Limited public transit: A car is necessary

Is Lemoore Right for You?

Lemoore works well for people who value:

  • Affordable housing
  • Small-town community
  • Access to outdoor recreation
  • Military-friendly environment
  • Distance from urban congestion

It may not be ideal if you need:

  • Urban nightlife and entertainment
  • Walkable city living
  • Mild summer temperatures
  • Proximity to beaches

Considering a move to Lemoore? Contact Greg Franklin or call (559) 816-7780 for local insights and home search assistance.

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