Desert Palms, CA
Population 6,522 · California
About Desert Palms, CA
Desert Palms is a small community in California with a population of 6,522 residents. The median household income is $81,954 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Desert Palms is 76.2 years.
Housing in Desert Palms has a median home value of $526,500 and median monthly rent of $2,175. Of the 5,093 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,209 owner-occupied and 622 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Desert Palms is 8.8% and the poverty rate is 9.4%. 48.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 24.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Desert Palms, CA
Compared to national averages, Desert Palms has a median household income of $81,954 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $526,500, which is 115% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,175 is 87% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Desert Palms's income is 16% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 19% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Desert Palms, CA?
Desert Palms offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,954, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 48.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $526,500. However, Desert Palms’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Desert Palms has a population of 6,522 with a median age of 76.2 years. Compare Desert Palms with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Desert Palms
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calipatria | 6,549 | $52,672 | $172,900 | Compare |
| Colusa | 6,439 | $68,750 | $357,400 | Compare |
| Jamul | 6,617 | $148,740 | $961,300 | Compare |
| Huron | 6,425 | $44,784 | $236,500 | Compare |
| Rancho Calaveras | 6,619 | $91,629 | $435,900 | Compare |
| Thermalito | 6,645 | $53,814 | $257,400 | Compare |
| Camino Tassajara | 6,395 | $250,001 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| El Rio | 6,343 | $83,233 | $639,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Desert Palms With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Desert Palms
What is the population of Desert Palms, CA?
The population of Desert Palms, CA is 6,522 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Desert Palms?
The median household income in Desert Palms, CA is $81,954 per year.
What is the median home value in Desert Palms?
The median home value in Desert Palms, CA is $526,500.
What is the average rent in Desert Palms?
The median monthly rent in Desert Palms, CA is $2,175.
What is the unemployment rate in Desert Palms?
The unemployment rate in Desert Palms, CA is 8.8%.