2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Palm Desert, CA vs Catalina, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Catalina older or younger than people in Palm Desert?
- The Median Age in Catalina is 1.0 years younger than in Palm Desert.

Are housing costs cheaper in Catalina or Palm Desert?
- Catalina housing costs are 29.9% less expensive than Palm Desert housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Catalina or Palm Desert?
- The average commute for residents of Catalina is 11.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Palm Desert.

Things to do in Palm Desert?
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.

Things to do in Catalina?
Living in Catalina, AZ is a truly unique experience. Nestled among the rolling hills of the desert, the town offers a quiet atmosphere with incredible views. The local community has been around for generations and is filled with friendly people who are passionate about their heritage. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Catalina boasts several outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking trails, camping sites, and bird watching. With easy access to nearby Tucson, AZ and its many attractions, Catalina is an ideal spot for those looking for some peace and quiet while still having plenty of entertainment options at their fingertips.

 Palm Desert, CACatalina, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock6,472329,725,481
 Median Income$67,514  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock55.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$539,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Palm Desert    14 Reviews

Over 4 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

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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

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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

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Reviews for Catalina    3 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

The Catlaina area (Saddlebrook / Oro Valley) was wonderful back in the 1970's and 1980's. As is typical with AZ, Developers ruined the community and problems are a  More

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Over 18 years ago

Deeply regret moving here 10 yrs ago. Cost of living is high, over-inflated housing/rental market, traffic is horrible, pay is extremely low. Great place to golf  More

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Over 18 years ago

We live on the north side of the Catalina Mtns. close to Tucson but not so close that we have to endure the smog. Congestion is becoming a part of life out here as  More

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