347 movers in Desert Hot Springs
What to know when moving to Desert Hot Springs, CA
Desert Hot Springs at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 44.3% of residents are renters and 15.3% hold a bachelor's degree.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $51,284, providing a budget-friendly living option.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 18.9%, economic challenges exist for some residents.
- Commute:
- Only 1.4% use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median gross rent of $1,367, which is manageable for many.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Desert Hot Springs offers a unique blend of affordability and community spirit. With a population of 40,918, this area has a significant renter presence at 44.3%. The median home value is $294,200, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy. However, the poverty rate of 18.9% suggests that while some residents thrive, others face economic hurdles.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a vibrant public transportation system, as only 1.4% of the population utilizes public transit.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,367, making it an affordable option in Riverside County.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $294,200, appealing for potential homeowners.
- 15.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to a somewhat educated community.
- The poverty rate stands at 18.9%, highlighting some economic challenges in the area.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, property crime rates are higher than the national average, but have seen a decrease over the last couple of years. The state annual rate for property crime in 2025 is 1,764 per 100,000 residents, which is 14% higher than the national average of 1,546.9.
- Violent crime rate: 415.5 per 100,000, which is 27.7% higher than the national average of 325.3.
- Property crime rate: 1,764 per 100,000, compared to the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Desert Hot Springs has access to 2 postsecondary institutions located in nearby Rancho Mirage.
- California Nurses Educational Institute
- San Joaquin Valley College-Rancho Mirage
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Desert Hot Springs receives about 10.7 inches of rain annually, with 40 rainy days each year. Prepare for a dry climate, especially in summer with just 0.3 inches of rain.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Whitewater Preserve - 4.8 stars (1,477 reviews)
- Big Morongo Canyon Preserve - 4.7 stars (1,098 reviews)
- Ruth Hardy Park - 4.6 stars (1,272 reviews)
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway - 4.8 stars (15,709 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Riverside County, the unemployment rate is 5.2% as of December 2025. The labor force comprises 1,211,232 individuals, with 1,148,124 currently employed.
- Unemployment rate: 5.2% (December 2025)
- Total employment: 1,148,124
- Total labor force: 1,211,232
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
