What's it like to live in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is a city in Southern California that’s known for its hot springs, golf courses, trendy hotels and spas, and of course, it’s seemingly endless summer. It’s a popular spot for SoCal residents looking for a weekend getaway, and it’s also a frequented tourist destination for visitors who want to lay out in the sun. What many people don’t know is that many people are moving to Palm Springs as well. According to Curbed, real estate in the city has become so popular over the past five years that home values have increased approximately 50 percent. From vacation homes and second homes to even a complete relocation, many homebuyers are now considering the move to Palm Springs.
For those who are wondering what it’s like to live in a city like Palm Springs, here are a few things to know.
Plenty of Scenic Views
What sets Palm Springs apart from many staycation communities in Southern California is the city’s scenic backdrops. For many residents, simply stepping outside of your home can offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the San Bernardino Mountains to the north and east, the Santa Rosa Mountains to the south, and the San Jacinto Mountains to the west. Since the community is also filled with several manmade recreational areas and some of the nation’s most beautiful golf courses, many homeowners can also catch views of those facilities from their own backyards. Whether you’re laying out by the pool, stepping outside for fresh air, completing errands in the city, or eating out at a restaurant, you’ll most likely have a great mountain view.
It’s a Resort City
Even though there are many people who live in Palm Springs, the city’s main drags are often dominated by visitors and vacationers. Most hotels, spas, trendy boutique shops, and restaurants can be found along Palm Canyon Drive or Indian Canyon Drive, which is also where the city’s downtown hub is located. The city itself seems to cater to people who aren’t residents, so there are several tourist options available in the city for visitors, including a popular Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, various hiking areas, shopping centers, museums, and bus tours. Many potential homebuyers are actually drawn to the community because of its resort-lifestyle vibe, variety of dining options, and overall amenities.
Housing is Relatively Affordable
Compared to cities such as Los Angeles and San Diego, where the median property values are in the high $500s and increasing every day, living in Palm Springs is considerably more affordable. According to Data USA, the median property value in Palm Springs is a little over $300,000. These reasonable home prices are attractive to millennials as well as retirees. The tricky part about real estate in Palm Springs is the lack of inventory available.
You’ll be Living in a Desert
If you’ve never been to Palm Springs before, it’s important to know that the city is smack dab in the middle of the desert. Although residents in Palm Springs don’t often see much rain, they are accustomed to the dry climate and heatwave temperatures (sometimes reaching a record high of low 120s). The bodies of water available in town, such as the waterfalls at Tahquitz Canyon Falls or the lake at Lake Cahuilla, are all man-made as well.
Car-Friendly
For prospective homebuyers who enjoy driving to destinations, Palm Springs is a great place to own a car. Although there are sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas closer to the downtown strip, most people don’t walk outside due to the intense weather. Compared to major metropolitans that often lack street parking or charge for parking, many establishments in Palms Springs, including restaurants, residences, golf courses, and nightlife, have plenty of free parking available.
Older Residents
Although more millennials are moving to the city due to the city’s affordability, “chill” lifestyle, and luxurious amenities, the median age of homeowners in Palms Springs actually hovers around 40 and up. For many 55+ residents, Palm Spring’s overall tranquility, quality golf courses, active living areas, and good dining options make it an ideal place to retire. There are currently 19 active adult communities in the Greater Palm Springs area.