Desert Hot Springs, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
33,200
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,761/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,474
-2.4% year-over-year change

Desert Hot Springs population

How many people live in Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs is home to 33,200 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Desert Hot Springs locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
33,200
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
16,261
Female
51%
16,939
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,261 49% 1.0%
Female 16,939 51% 1.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Desert Hot Springs is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.1% are children under 15, then 15.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.1%
15 to 24
15.7%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,330 22.1% 2.6%
15 to 24 5,210 15.7% -1.7%
25 to 44 8,388 25.3% -1.8%
45 to 64 7,969 24% 1.9%
Over 65 4,303 13% 8.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Desert Hot Springs, 74.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 12.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.5% of locals are Caucasian, 9.8% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 3.1% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 22.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 33.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
12.6%
Non-citizens
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 24,621 74.2% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,165 12.6% -0.7%
Non-citizens 4,414 13.3% 14.3%
Racial breakdown
White
29.5%
Black or African American
9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.1%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
33.2%
Other
22.2%
Value Percent
White 9,793 29.5%
Black or African American 3,259 9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,020 3.1%
Asian 515 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 213 0.6%
Two or more races 11,027 33.2%
Other 7,373 22.2%

Households in Desert Hot Springs

A peek inside Desert Hot Springs households

Desert Hot Springs has 11,379 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.7% are families, while the remaining 31.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,379
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,561
Family households
7,818
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,561 31.3% -11.2%
Family households 7,818 68.7% 5.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Desert Hot Springs

The housing landscape of Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs's housing consists of 12,474 units, with 63.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,474
-2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,969 63.9%
1 unit, attached 443 3.6%
2 units 807 6.5%
3 or 4 units 955 7.7%
5 to 9 units 659 5.3%
10 to 19 units 302 2.4%
20 to 49 units 156 1.2%
50 or more units 179 1.4%
Mobile home 996 8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
74
-28.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Desert Hot Springs

In Desert Hot Springs, the median construction year is 1990. About 0.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 29.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 27 0.2% 12.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 162 1.3% -45.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 765 6.1% -14.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,177 9.4% 8.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,945 15.6% -6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,234 17.9% 5.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,761 14.1% -4.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,640 29.2% -3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 689 5.5% 19.6%
Built in 2020 or later 74 0.6% -28.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Desert Hot Springs occupancy rates

Out of the 11,379 occupied housing units in Desert Hot Springs, 50.7% are owner-occupied, while 49.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,379
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,609
Owner occupied
5,770
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,609 49.3% -2.0%
Owner occupied 5,770 50.7% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Desert Hot Springs housing costs

Housing costs in Desert Hot Springs come to a median of $1,465 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,412.

Median housing costs per month
$1,465/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Desert Hot Springs
$1,412/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Desert Hot Springs

Desert Hot Springs education at a glance

About 45.9% of the population in Desert Hot Springs went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 9.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,442 10.1% 24.7%
High school diploma 11,090 45.9% -2.4%
College diploma 5,538 22.9% -4.8%
Associate degree 1,546 6.4% -2.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,372 9.8% 9.1%
Graduate degree 1,158 4.8% 5.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Desert Hot Springs

How much people earn in Desert Hot Springs

The average annual household income in Desert Hot Springs was $68,206 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,761, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Desert Hot Springs
$68,206/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Desert Hot Springs
$52,761/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Desert Hot Springs income by age

In Desert Hot Springs, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,679. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,788 overall. Overall, 82.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $66,679 5.1%
45 - 64 $50,788 3.6%
Over 65 $39,093 0.9%
Above poverty level
26,885
Below poverty level
5,709
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,885 82.5% 2.4%
Below poverty level 5,709 17.5% -6.0%

Average renter income in Desert Hot Springs

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Desert Hot Springs, their median household income was $34,972 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 48.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,972
Rent-to-income ratio
48.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Desert Hot Springs

Workforce and job types in Desert Hot Springs

The job market in Desert Hot Springs is powered by 14,890 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.4% run their own businesses, 69.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,890
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
10,495
Blue collar
4,395
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,495 70.5% -3.3%
Blue collar 4,395 29.5% 10.7%
Employer type
Self employees
13.4%
Private companies
69.2%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,994 13.4% 13.9%
Private companies 10,298 69.2% -1.5%
Governmental workers 1,719 11.5% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 879 5.9% -9.1%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
-2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Desert Hot Springs stands at 6.6%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Desert Hot Springs

How people get around in Desert Hot Springs

Commuting methods vary: 89.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,764 89.5% -2.1%
Taxicab 85 0.6% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 363 2.6% 46.4%
Walk 211 1.5% 101.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Desert Hot Springs by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92240 41,615 14,115 $54,023 $70,909
92241 8,884 3,959 $46,888 $67,540

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FAQs about Desert Hot Springs demographics 

What is the total population of Desert Hot Springs?

Desert Hot Springs has a total population of 33,200 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Desert Hot Springs?

The gender ratio in Desert Hot Springs is as follows:
  • 49% males (16,261 residents)
  • 51% females (16,939 residents)

What is the median age in Desert Hot Springs?

The median age in Desert Hot Springs is 34.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Desert Hot Springs?

The age distribution in Desert Hot Springs is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.1% (7,330 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.7% (5,210 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (8,388 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (7,969 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (4,303 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Desert Hot Springs?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Desert Hot Springs is as follows:
  • White: 29.5% (9,793 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.8% (3,259 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.1% (1,020 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (515 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (213 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 33.2% (11,027 residents)
  • Other: 22.2% (7,373 residents)

What percentage of the population in Desert Hot Springs are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.2% of the population in Desert Hot Springs.

How many housing units are there in Desert Hot Springs?

There are 12,474 housing units in Desert Hot Springs, reflecting a -2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Desert Hot Springs and what is the average household size?

Desert Hot Springs has a total of 11,379 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Desert Hot Springs?

Desert Hot Springs has a median household income of $52,761, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Desert Hot Springs?

The employment rate is 93.4% in Desert Hot Springs, with a workforce of 14,890 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.5% (10,495 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.5% (4,395 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.4% (1,994 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.2% (10,298 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (1,719 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.9% (879 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025