2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ottumwa, IA vs Desert Hot Springs, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Desert Hot Springs older or younger than people in Ottumwa?
- The Median Age in Desert Hot Springs is 2.8 years younger than in Ottumwa.

Are housing costs cheaper in Desert Hot Springs or Ottumwa?
- Desert Hot Springs housing costs are 262.4% more expensive than Ottumwa housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Desert Hot Springs or Ottumwa?
- The average commute for residents of Desert Hot Springs is 12.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ottumwa.

Things to do in Ottumwa?
Ottumwa, IA is a charming city located in Wapello County. With an estimated population of 25,000 people, Ottumwa has something special for everyone. From outdoor activities like fishing and hiking to cultural attractions like the American Gothic House–there's always something new to explore in this lively city. Residents also benefit from easy access to quality public and private schools as well as excellent healthcare facilities. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation—Ottumwa has something special for everyone!

Things to do in Desert Hot Springs?
Desert Hot Springs is a small desert town nestled in southern California near Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Its hot springs provide warmth throughout the year and are thought to have healing properties. Other attractions include world-class golf courses, hiking trails along with shops and restaurants offering everything from classic American cuisine to Mexican favorites!

 Ottumwa, IADesert Hot Springs, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock31,988329,725,481
 Median Income$48,198  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$97,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.38  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ottumwa    5 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

Ottumwa has a seemingly high rate of theft-related crimes as well as drug use which I'm sure correlates to the incidences of assault. For a community of 20-30,000, the  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

ottumwa, Iowa has no diverse culture. It is not very open especially when it comes to branching out to new ideas of others culture...The idea of culture here is the pro  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Pros: 1. Extremely low cost of living and housing 2. Affordable place to live Cons: 1. High crime rate 2. Very poor school system 3. Economically depressed 4.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ottumwa

Reviews for Desert Hot Springs    9 Reviews

lived here 13 years and leaving as soon as possible. crime rate high but getting better. much improved place since 2008. if you buy a house choose the neighborhood and  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

Love the winters but the summers are too difficult for me. Hot and super windy. However I love the serenity, beautiful mountains, hot springs, and location close to  More

   |    Reply

I am 29 years old and have lived in this city nearly my entire life. When my family moved to this town, there were less than 12,000 people. I've watched it grow a lot.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Desert Hot Springs


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


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

© Best Places. All rights reserved.