Palm Desert, CA
Population 51,551 · California
About Palm Desert, CA
Palm Desert is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 51,551 residents. The median household income is $79,508 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Palm Desert is 56.7 years.
Housing in Palm Desert has a median home value of $491,600 and median monthly rent of $1,717. Of the 36,584 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 15,546 owner-occupied and 8,599 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Palm Desert is 6.1% and the poverty rate is 11.3%. 39.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Palm Desert, CA
Compared to national averages, Palm Desert has a median household income of $79,508 (6% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $491,600, which is 101% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,717 is 48% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Palm Desert's income is 19% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 25% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Palm Desert, CA?
Palm Desert offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $79,508, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 39.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 11.3%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $491,600. However, as a mid-sized city, Palm Desert provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Palm Desert has a population of 51,551 with a median age of 56.7 years. Compare Palm Desert with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Palm Desert
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln | 51,629 | $108,108 | $628,500 | Compare |
| Glendora | 51,350 | $111,915 | $820,800 | Compare |
| Aliso Viejo | 51,320 | $137,970 | $863,800 | Compare |
| Watsonville | 51,968 | $74,785 | $657,700 | Compare |
| Cathedral City | 52,047 | $67,031 | $420,700 | Compare |
| Delano | 50,835 | $61,817 | $270,300 | Compare |
| Placentia | 52,384 | $110,575 | $871,000 | Compare |
| Paramount | 52,546 | $70,912 | $500,400 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Palm Desert
What is the population of Palm Desert, CA?
The population of Palm Desert, CA is 51,551 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Palm Desert?
The median household income in Palm Desert, CA is $79,508 per year.
What is the median home value in Palm Desert?
The median home value in Palm Desert, CA is $491,600.
What is the average rent in Palm Desert?
The median monthly rent in Palm Desert, CA is $1,717.
What is the unemployment rate in Palm Desert?
The unemployment rate in Palm Desert, CA is 6.1%.