Living the Desert Dream: What Does it Cost to Rent in Palm Springs?

Palm Springs CA will continue to be one of the hottest destinations for people wanting iconic mountain views and a Mid-century Modern experience, but for those moving to Palm Springs CA, an analysis of the 2025 residential market will be a necessary one. The bright spot in all of this is that average rent prices for an apartment have steadied from post-pandemic increases, resting at about $2,100 per month with private single-family residences starting at about $3,400.

In addition to apartment rent, utility expenses in the desert lifestyle are substantial, termed a "second rent." Winter utility bills are not too exasperating, but the summer months see considerable electricity usage for cooling, increasing to 300-600 dollars a month in some instances. If you are considering a 1,400 dollar one or two bedroom apartment or a luxury one in the Uptown Design District, it is the essence of successfully transitioning to the Las Vegas lifestyle that you factor in these periodic utility variations and the recent guidelines set in the state of California for security deposits.

Current Rental Market Snapshot (2025 Trends)

When you look at the current listings, you will notice the market has taken a breath. We aren't seeing those frantic bidding wars for rentals that were common a few years ago. Rents have dipped slightly compared to last year, in some cases by about 1%, and in many areas they’ve simply levelled off. That slowdown has eased pressure on tenants. It also helps that Palm Springs isn’t dominated by large, corporate-owned apartment blocks like those common in Los Angeles or San Diego. A lot of the inventory here consists of smaller, boutique complexes or individually owned condos. Here is a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to pay for different unit sizes right now:

• Studios: These are a great entry point, usually running $1,400–$1,500.

• 1-Bedroom Apartments: The standard for couples or solo professionals typically lands between $1,700–$1,950.

• 2-Bedroom Units: If you need a home office or guest room, budget for $1,950–$2,400.

• Single-Family Homes: This is where the range widens significantly. A standard home might start at $3,400, but luxury properties with private pools and mountain views can easily surpass $5,500+.

It is also worth noting that "Apartment Communities" often come in at a lower price point and include on-site management. In contrast, "Private Home Rentals" (often condos or casitas) offer more unique architectural charm but usually command a premium.

Neighborhood Guide: Price Variations by Area

Just like any city, your zip code dictates your rent. Palm Springs is a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with a different lifestyle and price tag and it is important to look at the best neighborhoods in Palm Springs California.

Downtown and The Uptown Design District 

If walkability is your priority, this is where you want to be. Living near Palm Canyon Drive puts coffee shops, museums, and nightlife at your doorstep. Consequently, this convenience costs more. You will find a mix of luxury condos and renovated historic apartments here, with rents often exceeding $2,400 for a nice one-bedroom unit.

Demuth Park and South Palm Springs 

For those looking for more space and quieter streets, the south end of town is a solid option. Areas like Demuth Park and near Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort tend to be more affordable. You can often find older single-family homes or smaller units for under $2,000. It is a bit more residential and less tourist-heavy, offering good value for long-term residents.

Racquet Club / North Palm Springs 

This area is famous for its concentration of Alexander homes and mid-century architecture. It is incredibly popular for vacation rentals, but plenty of long-term options exist. It has a breezy, open feel, though it can get windy. Prices here are moderate to high, heavily depending on whether the home has been renovated recently.

Deepwell Estates and The Mesa 

If you are looking for the classic "Hollywood hideaway" feel, these neighborhoods south of downtown are it. This area is characterized by high hedges, large lots, and significant prestige. Expect high-end pricing here; rentals are almost exclusively expensive single-family houses rather than apartments.

The Snowbird Effect: Seasonality and Short-Term Rentals

Palm Springs operates on a unique "dual market" system because of our winter visitors, affectionately known as Snowbirds. Understanding this cycle can save you thousands of dollars.

During "High Season" (roughly October through April), the population swells. Inventory for seasonal rentals tightens up, and prices for short-term stays skyrocket. A home that might lease for $3,500 a month on an annual contract could easily command $5,000–$8,000 a month as a seasonal winter rental.

However, "Low Season" (May through September) is when the locals regain the town. If you are willing to move during the heat, you can find excellent deals. Landlords are often eager to secure long-term tenants before summer hits, and you might find move-in incentives.

It is vital to distinguish between a 12-month lease and a seasonal rental. If you sign a standard year-long lease, your rate is locked in and won't fluctuate with the seasons. If you are only looking to stay for a few months in the winter, be prepared to pay premium vacation rates.

Hidden Costs: Utilities and The 'Summer Shock'

We have to talk about the electricity bill. When people calculate the cost of living in Palm Springs, they often underestimate the summer months. Consider your summer electric bill as a "second rent."

Most of Palm Springs is serviced by Southern California Edison (SCE). While winter electric bills are delightful—often $30–$80 when you can leave the windows open—summer is a different beast. From June through September, temperatures regularly hit 110°F or higher. Your AC will be running constantly.

• Summer Electric: Expect to pay $300–$500+ per month. If you rent an older home with poor insulation and single-pane glass, bills exceeding $600 are not uncommon.

• Water: Desert water rates generally run $60–$100 per month depending on usage.

• Gas: This is usually low in the summer but can jump in winter if you are heating a home or a spa.

When looking at apartments for rent, ask specifically about the unit's insulation and the age of the AC unit. It makes a massive difference to your monthly budget.

Comparing Rent: Palm Springs vs. Nearby Cities

If the average rent in Palm Springs feels a bit steep, or if you just want a different vibe, the surrounding Coachella Valley offers varied options.

Cathedral City 

Located immediately adjacent to Palm Springs, "Cat City" is the most logical alternative for budget-conscious renters. It has a more working-class, year-round residential feel. You can typically find rents here averaging $1,500–$1,600, offering significant savings while being just a 10-minute drive from downtown Palm Springs.

Palm Desert 

If you prefer a more suburban environment with wider streets, shopping malls, and big-box stores, look at Palm Desert. It feels more manicured and less "retro" than Palm Springs. Rents are comparable but slightly lower, often hovering around $1,700–$1,800 for decent apartments.

Indio and La Quinta 

Further east, cities like Indio and La Quinta offer newer housing stock and golf course communities. Rents can be cheaper, but you have to factor in the commute. It can take 30 to 40 minutes to get from Indio to Palm Springs, which might negate the rental savings if you work in the west valley.

Leasing 101: Deposits, Pets, and Requirements

Before you sign a lease, you should know what is required to get the keys. Landlords here typically look for a gross income of 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent. Application fees are standard, usually costing between $30 and $55 per adult.

The biggest update for renters comes from a new California law. As of July 1, 2024 (AB 12), landlords are generally capped at charging one month’s rent as a security deposit. This applies whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. This is a huge relief for tenants who previously had to put down two or even three times the rent upfront.

If you are bringing a furry friend, pet rent is very common, usually adding $30–$50 to your monthly total. However, because of the new law, landlords cannot charge a separate huge pet deposit if it pushes the total deposit over that one-month cap.

FAQs

Is it expensive to live in Palm Springs?

It depends on your comparison point. Compared to coastal cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, Palm Springs is significantly more affordable. However, while rent is lower, you must budget for high summer electricity costs, which can balance out the savings during the hotter months.

What is the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Palm Springs?

For a standard 1-bedroom unit, you should expect to pay between $1,700 and $1,950 per month. Luxury units in the downtown area or highly amenitized complexes will cost more, while older units in South Palm Springs may be slightly less.

Do rentals in Palm Springs come furnished?

It depends on the lease term. Most standard 12-month leases are for unfurnished units. However, because of the snowbird market, there is a high volume of furnished rentals available, though these often cater to seasonal visitors and come with a much higher monthly price tag.

Does rent go down in the summer in Palm Springs?

While the monthly rate on a 12-month lease stays the same regardless of the season, you are much more likely to find move-in specials in the summer. Landlords often offer "first month free" or reduced deposits during the hot months (June–August) to attract tenants when demand is low.