Palm Desert, CA


14 Reviews



BestPlaces offers the best, most comprehensive city reports,
with insight into cost of living, crime, climate, and more.
Palm Desert, CA

About Palm Desert, CA

Palm Desert is a city in Riverside County, California that enjoys year-round sunshine and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Located within the Coachella Valley of the Sonoran desert, there are plenty of activities to enjoy around the area such as golfing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and rock climbing. The city has some beautiful resorts with upscale amenities, shopping centers full of boutique stores and galleries, art shows and festivals to take part in throughout the year. In addition to its picturesque scenery, Palm Desert’s rich cultural diversity makes it an ideal place for a unique travel experience. Very large metro area set in the valleys and mountains of Callifornia. Primary industries include logistics and manufacturing. - In southern California, 55 miles east of Los Angeles and 85 miles north of San Diego..

Location Details

Zip Codes: 92260 92211
Cost of Living: 31.2% higher
Time zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Elevation: 827 ft above sea level
Buying or selling a home?
Find top real estate agents in Palm Desert.
Find A Top Agent

Dig Deeper on Palm Desert

The Riverside, CA metro area, located about 60 miles east of Los Angeles in Southern California, is a place with a warm climate and scenic landscapes. Its journey began in the early 1870s as a citrus-growing region, marking its significance in the development of California's citrus industry. Over the years, Riverside has evolved from its agricultural roots into a thriving metropolitan area, blending historical charm with modern living.

Geographically, Riverside is nestled in the Inland Empire region, surrounded by mountains and hills, with the Santa Ana River running through it. This setting offers residents picturesque views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The Mediterranean climate here means hot summers and mild winters, which is perfect for those who enjoy sunny days almost year-round.

The economy of Riverside is multifaceted, with healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail among its major sectors. The presence of several universities and colleges, including the University of California, Riverside, contributes to a vibrant intellectual and cultural environment. Additionally, the healthcare sector plays a significant role in the local economy, offering numerous employment opportunities.

When it comes to voting patterns, Riverside County has experienced shifts over the years. Historically leaning conservative, there has been a growing number of Democratic voters recently, reflecting a politically competitive area. This change underscores a community engaged with a wide range of issues and values.

Life in Riverside offers a mix of suburban and urban amenities, making it an appealing choice for many. From exploring historic sites like the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa to enjoying the local arts scene, there's always something to do. The area also hosts various festivals and community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of togetherness among residents.

For new residents, it's important to note that while Riverside offers an affordable cost of living compared to other parts of Southern California, the area does face challenges such as traffic congestion during peak hours. Additionally, the warm climate demands attention to water conservation and preparedness for occasional heatwaves. However, with its welcoming community, economic opportunities, and beautiful natural surroundings, Riverside presents a desirable balance of comfort and convenience for its inhabitants.

Palm Desert Cost of Living
$$$$

50 Mins to Los Angeles, arts & culture, and natural beauty make Palm Desert a great place to live.

$539,000
+37.3% higher than avg
$67,514
-2.2% lower than avg
$1,940 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
+26.3% higher than avg
Palm Desert Crime
59.3 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Palm Desert, California
$103,320
for a family
$62,000
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Palm Desert
   50 Mins to Los Angeles
High home prices
   Arts & culture
Dry climate
   Natural beauty
Summer heat
Reviews for Palm Desert
    See all (14)

Over 3 years ago

Palm Desert, CA is full of rude people. One woman in a long sleeved pink shirt is being extremely rude and mocking people for no reason at a neighborhood Walmart in Palm  More

   |    Reply

Palm Desert is clean, upscale and beautiful. The views of the Santa Rosa Mountains bright blue sky and green expanses of golf course fairways, swimming pools and  More

   |    Reply

I made the mistake of moving here after a short vacation to be closer to family. Biggest mistake of my life! This is not the place to live if health is important to you.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Palm Desert

Cost of Living
Compare Palm Desert, CA
cost of living
Compare food, housing, utilities, and more in Palm Desert, California to any other city in the US.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.