Palm Desert, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
51,990
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$77,513/yr
-2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,028
1.2% year-over-year change

Palm Desert population

How many people live in Palm Desert

Palm Desert is home to 51,990 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.5% of Palm Desert locals are male, and 53.5% are female.

Total population
51,990
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.5%
24,157
Female
53.5%
27,833
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,157 46.5% -1.0%
Female 27,833 53.5% 2.5%
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 Palm Desert is 58, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.4% are children under 15, then 8.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.1% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 37.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
57.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.4%
15 to 24
8.4%
25 to 44
20.1%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
37.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,396 10.4% -5.5%
15 to 24 4,368 8.4% 1.6%
25 to 44 10,461 20.1% 3.1%
45 to 64 12,167 23.4% 0.1%
Over 65 19,598 37.7% 1.9%
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 Palm Desert, 80.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.2% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 4.8% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 20.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13%
Non-citizens
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,729 80.3% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,761 13% 3.4%
Non-citizens 3,500 6.7% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
66.2%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
4.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
20.7%
Other
5.4%
Value Percent
White 34,401 66.2%
Black or African American 892 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 523 1%
Asian 2,467 4.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 131 0.2%
Two or more races 10,761 20.7%
Other 2,815 5.4%

Households in Palm Desert

A peek inside Palm Desert households

Palm Desert has 24,690 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,690
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,888
Family households
13,802
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,888 44.1% 5.4%
Family households 13,802 55.9% -0.1%
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 Palm Desert

The housing landscape of Palm Desert

Palm Desert's housing consists of 37,028 units, with 37.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 30.7% 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 9.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,028
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,972 37.7%
1 unit, attached 11,357 30.7%
2 units 496 1.3%
3 or 4 units 2,330 6.3%
5 to 9 units 1,261 3.4%
10 to 19 units 1,456 3.9%
20 to 49 units 644 1.7%
50 or more units 1,947 5.3%
Mobile home 3,552 9.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0%
Homes built since 2020
376
182.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Palm Desert

In Palm Desert, the median construction year is 1985. About 0.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 196 0.5% 8.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 161 0.4% -20.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,141 3.1% 8.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,621 7.1% -3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,227 22.2% 6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 11,957 32.3% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,026 16.3% -8.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,517 12.2% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,806 4.9% 9.1%
Built in 2020 or later 376 1% 182.7%
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.

Palm Desert occupancy rates

Out of the 24,690 occupied housing units in Palm Desert, 65% are owner-occupied, while 35% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 33.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,690
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,651
Owner occupied
16,039
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,651 35% 0.6%
Owner occupied 16,039 65% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
33.3%
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.

Palm Desert housing costs

Housing costs in Palm Desert come to a median of $1,748 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,778.

Median housing costs per month
$1,748/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 Palm Desert
$1,778/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 Palm Desert

Palm Desert education at a glance

About 24.4% of the population in Palm Desert went to high school, while 26.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 864 1.9% -23.0%
High school diploma 11,075 24.4% 5.2%
College diploma 12,205 26.9% -0.8%
Associate degree 3,757 8.3% -4.7%
Bachelor's degree 10,558 23.3% 2.5%
Graduate degree 6,884 15.2% 6.2%
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 Palm Desert

How much people earn in Palm Desert

The average annual household income in Palm Desert was $120,511 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $77,513, reflecting a -2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Palm Desert
$120,511/year
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Palm Desert
$77,513/year
-2.5% year-over-year change

Palm Desert income by age

In Palm Desert, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,787. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $85,201 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $65,278, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,471 in earnings. Overall, 89% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $65,278 12.8%
25 - 44 $82,787 1.0%
45 - 64 $85,201 1.2%
Over 65 $70,471 -4.1%
Above poverty level
45,537
Below poverty level
5,652
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 45,537 89% 0.9%
Below poverty level 5,652 11% -2.0%

Average renter income in Palm Desert

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Palm Desert, their median household income was $47,024 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,024
Rent-to-income ratio
45.4%
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 Palm Desert

Workforce and job types in Palm Desert

The job market in Palm Desert is powered by 21,236 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.4% run their own businesses, 62.8% are employed by private companies, and 11% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
21,236
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
18,885
Blue collar
2,351
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,885 88.9% 1.6%
Blue collar 2,351 11.1% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
17.4%
Private companies
62.8%
Governmental workers
11%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,706 17.4% -5.5%
Private companies 13,326 62.8% 2.2%
Governmental workers 2,330 11% 10.4%
Not for profit companies 1,874 8.8% -0.2%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
5.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Palm Desert stands at 6.4%, 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 Palm Desert

How people get around in Palm Desert

In Palm Desert, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-6.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,917 82.2% 0.4%
Taxicab 17 0.1% 21.4%
Bus or trolleybus 152 0.7% 8.6%
Motorcycle 22 0.1% -74.4%
Bicycle 44 0.2% -6.4%
Walk 226 1.1% -2.2%
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 Palm Desert by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
92211 28,092 13,872 $88,477 $126,581
92260 30,523 14,709 $70,091 $110,789

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FAQs about Palm Desert demographics 

What is the total population of Palm Desert?

Palm Desert has a total population of 51,990 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Palm Desert?

The gender ratio in Palm Desert is as follows:
  • 46.5% males (24,157 residents)
  • 53.5% females (27,833 residents)

What is the median age in Palm Desert?

The median age in Palm Desert is 57.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Palm Desert?

The age distribution in Palm Desert is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.4% (5,396 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.4% (4,368 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.1% (10,461 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (12,167 residents)
  • Over 65: 37.7% (19,598 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Palm Desert?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Palm Desert is as follows:
  • White: 66.2% (34,401 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (892 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (523 residents)
  • Asian: 4.8% (2,467 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (131 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.7% (10,761 residents)
  • Other: 5.4% (2,815 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.3% of the population in Palm Desert.

How many housing units are there in Palm Desert?

There are 37,028 housing units in Palm Desert, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Palm Desert has a total of 24,690 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Palm Desert?

Palm Desert has a median household income of $77,513, representing a -2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Palm Desert, with a workforce of 21,236 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.9% (18,885 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.1% (2,351 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.4% (3,706 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.8% (13,326 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11% (2,330 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (1,874 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