2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Topanga, CA vs Palm Desert, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Palm Desert older or younger than people in Topanga?
- The Median Age in Palm Desert is 10.6 years older than in Topanga.

Are housing costs cheaper in Palm Desert or Topanga?
- Palm Desert housing costs are 66.6% less expensive than Topanga housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Palm Desert or Topanga?
- The average commute for residents of Palm Desert is 20.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Topanga.

Things to do in Topanga?
Living in Topanga, CA is a unique experience. With its close proximity to the ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains, it's like living in a natural paradise. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from such as hiking and biking trails, which are perfect for those looking for adventure. Plus it's incredibly peaceful here with its rolling hills and beautiful landscapes, providing an ideal environment for relaxation. Nature lovers will enjoy the abundance of wildlife throughout Topanga, with deer and coyote often seen roaming through the area. Additionally, there are many restaurants, bars, and markets located along the main strip of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Residents take pride in their community as they support small businesses and local independent shops. With its diverse culture and laidback vibes, living in Topanga is truly an unforgettable experience!

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.

 Topanga, CAPalm Desert, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock51,081329,725,481
 Median Income$128,884  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock56.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,613,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time40.06  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Topanga    5 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

Topanga is now completely crowded with Airbnbs! No one actually LIVES here anymore. I hear more and more stories about investors buying property here just so they can  More

   |    Reply

Topanga is a beautiful oasis and a wonderful, quiet mountain refuge in the middle of fast-paced Los Angeles. It’s still a hidden gem that few in the general populace  More

   |    Reply

Over 8 years ago

I own a house in Topanga now. People ask me all the time what it's like to live here so I thought I'd share my experience. I moved here from Santa Monica because I  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Topanga

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

   |    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


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.