Is Palm Springs Good for Families? The Local Perspective

While the traditional stereotypes of Palm Springs once focused on spring breakers and retirees, a new demographic of young creatives, remote workers, and entrepreneurs is migrating from Los Angeles and Orange County in search of iconic architecture, expansive space, and a slower pace of life.

There is a very unique lifestyle in the area, nature based, but quite different from the lifestyle of other coastal suburbs. The trick to capturing one of the many homes for sale in Palm Springs, California includes adapting to an extreme desert environment, mastering the "Greater Palm Springs"-a connected array of towns each offering a different atmosphere and community vibe.

The School Situation: What Parents Need to Know

While parents are naturally cautious when looking at statistics from the Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD), the large geographical area that the PSUSD covers can make overall statistics somewhat misleading. The actual truth is that when seeking the right fit, it’s necessary to move past the statistics and research schools.

Several local standouts are highly recommended by the community:

• Cielo Vista Charter School: Consistently highly rated with a high level of parent involvement.

• Katherine Finchy Elementary: A strong performer frequently recommended by locals.

• Rancho Mirage High School: A popular choice for older students due to its robust programs and facilities.

If a zoned school isn't the right match, the district provides flexibility through open enrollment transfers, subject to availability. Additionally, the valley offers a diverse mix of private and charter options for those seeking smaller class sizes or specific educational philosophies.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Palm Springs

One of the most desirable aspects of relocating to Palm Springs is the liberal lot size, allowing large backyard areas to be created with sufficient space for a pool and gardens, unlike other congested beachside suburbs. Yet to purchase a home in Palm Springs can be tricky due to the difference between "Fee Land" (which the buyer owns) and "Lease Land" (which is leased to the buyer from the "Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.") If they want to invest for the long haul, they would rather invest in Fee Land than Lease Land.

The following areas are highly sought after for their quiet, residential atmosphere:

• South Palm Springs (Twin Palms, Deepwell Estates, Indian Canyons): These neighborhoods are highly coveted. They are located in "wind-free" zones (the north end of town gets very windy), which makes playing outside much more pleasant. The streets are generally wide, quiet, and great for riding bikes.

• The Mesa: Tucked right up against the mountains, this area feels very private and secluded. It’s less of a "sidewalk" neighborhood and more of a nature-retreat vibe.

• Sunrise Park / Tahquitz River Estates: These are centrally located, featuring a mix of architectural styles. They are close to the actual parks and schools, making the daily commute for drop-offs very easy.

Safety and Community Vibe

Safety remains a primary concern for parents moving to the area. Like many popular tourist destinations, Palm Springs experiences property crime, such as car break-ins, particularly in busy commercial zones or during peak festival seasons. However, locals make a clear distinction between these bustling areas and quiet residential pockets like South Palm Springs, which feels more secure and private because it is further removed from the city's main entry points.

Additionally, outside of the numbers, the community feel and environment are huge pluses. The area provides access to a unified community comprised of a multitude of artists and the LGBTQ+ community, adding to the open-minded nature of the environment. Although the area has areas such as homelessness within the downtown area, as it is within most areas of California, the residential areas are a close-knit community.

The Outdoor Lifestyle: A Huge Plus for Kids

The desert serves as a massive natural playground for eight months of the year. While the rest of the country is shoveling snow, residents here are usually hiking in t-shirts and enjoying the unparalleled access to outdoor exploration.

We aren't just talking about local playgrounds, though places like Ruth Hardy Park are iconic for their massive trees and tennis courts. The access to genuine adventure is unparalleled here.

• Indian Canyons: This is a local favorite. Murray Canyon, in particular, is highly recommended as an accessible hike featuring seasonal streams and waterfalls—a rarity in the desert that offers a refreshing outdoor experience.

• Joshua Tree National Park: You are only about 45 minutes away from one of the most unique landscapes on earth. It’s an easy day trip for scrambling on rocks and camping.

• Biking: Because much of the city is flat, bike rides are a staple of the lifestyle here.

Must-See Attractions and Where to Stay

When planning a visit to Palm Springs, selecting the right resort or vacation rental is where a successful trip starts. The Greater Palm Springs area features some of the best family-friendly destinations from the Omni Rancho Las Palmas to the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells; certain hotspots boast major pools, water slides, lazy rivers, and kids clubs. For the privacy-seeker, searching out homes for sale in Palm Springs California or rentals in Las Palmas and South Palm Springs yield a secluded base near some of the world's finest golfing and dining.

Some of the iconic attractions to see the best of the area around Palm Springs include Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Art Museum, or one of a number of splash pads locally. For a really different perspective, take the rotating tram at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of the mountain and explore the Long Valley Discovery Trail in the cooler air of the San Jacinto Mountains.

For a bit of desert magic, consider Palm Springs as a gateway to rugged adventures and quirky stops:

• Indian Canyons: Located in Palm Canyon, this area features lush oases and trails like Murray Canyon that kids enjoyed for their hidden streams.

• Cabazon Dinosaurs: This famous roadside attraction just outside the city features the massive dinosaur sculptures seen in movies—a must-see visit to Palm Springs.

• Red Jeep Tours: Sign up for one of the popular jeep tours to explore the San Andreas Fault or the backcountry areas in the Palm Springs area.

• Living Desert Zoo: This is a local zoo in Palm Desert where you can view and feed giraffes.

The Reality Check: Surviving Summer with Kids

The desert heat is a significant factor when relocating from more temperate climates. From June through September, temperatures consistently soar over 100°F, and peaks of 115°F are common. To manage this, locals essentially "flip" their daily schedules: outdoor activities are reserved for before 9:00 AM or after sunset, while mid-day is spent indoors.

Because of this environment, having a pool is nearly mandatory. To avoid "cabin fever" during the peak heat, there are a few things to do in Palm Springs California and residents often utilize these local resources:

• Museums: The Palm Springs Air Museum and the Art Museum (which offers free nights) are popular indoor destinations for children.

• Public Libraries: These serve as excellent cooling centers and host dedicated kids' programs throughout the summer.

• The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: This is the ultimate "escape hatch." A short ride takes you to Mt. San Jacinto, where temperatures are typically 30 degrees cooler than the valley floor, making pine-tree hikes possible even in July.

Palm Springs vs. Palm Desert: Which is Better for Families?

A common debate for buyers is whether to settle in Palm Springs proper or move "down valley" to Palm Desert or Rancho Mirage. The choice usually comes down to what kind of lifestyle you want.

Palm Springs offers a historic, eclectic, and slightly more urban feel. It has a walkable downtown and older, character-rich homes. It’s generally windier on the north side, but it has more "soul."

Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage feel more like traditional suburbs. You’ll find master-planned communities, newer schools, and large shopping malls like The Shops at Palm Desert. The streets are wider and more manicured, but some find it lacks the unique culture of Palm Springs.

The good news is that these cities are only 20 to 30 minutes apart. You can easily live in a quiet Palm Desert neighborhood and drive into Palm Springs for dinner, or live in Palm Springs and commute to The Living Desert Zoo in Palm Desert.

Cost of Living Considerations for Families

Financially, deserts prove to be an attractive option to that found in coastal California in terms of financial investments in purchasing a home. Even though home prices in the Coachella Valley have gone up, it remains relatively affordable when considered in relation to prices in cities such as LA and San Diego, where people can afford much more square footage for their money.

Nevertheless, the budget has to factor in the high cost of utilities connected with summer. Electricity bills for air conditioning can go as high as $400 to $800 a month depending on the size and efficiency of the house. As a result, houses with solar panels are a major resource where cash flow and value in the property market are concerned.

With regards to the cost of living in Palm Springs, California, the cost of groceries and gas is about the same or sometimes higher than in Southern California. Although the property tax is set at a normal rate in California, if parents are considering newer developments, they should note that "Mello-Roos" charges might be applied, which is something that happens less with regard to older communities like Palm Springs.

FAQs

Is Palm Springs safe for families?

Palm Springs is generally safe, especially in the residential neighborhoods away from the main tourist strips. While property crime like car theft can occur, violent crime rates in residential areas are lower, and neighborhoods like Deepwell and Twin Palms are known for being quiet and low-traffic.

What are the best schools in Palm Springs?

While the district has mixed reviews overall, specific schools like Cielo Vista Charter and Katherine Finchy Elementary are highly regarded by local parents. Many residents also utilize the district's transfer policies to gain access to these specific campuses if they are not currently zoned for them.

How do families handle the summer heat in Palm Springs?

Locals adapt by shifting their schedule to early mornings and late evenings, leaving the middle of the day for indoor activities. A swimming pool is essential for surviving the summer, and residents often take the Aerial Tramway up the mountain or drive to the coast on weekends to escape the high temperatures.

Is Palm Springs or Palm Desert better for kids?

It depends on your preference; Palm Springs offers a more eclectic, historic, and walkable environment, while Palm Desert offers a more traditional suburban feel with newer schools and large malls. Palm Desert is often viewed as more "manicured," while Palm Springs is viewed as more culturally vibrant.

Are there kid-friendly activities in Palm Springs?

Yes, there is plenty to do, including the Palm Springs Air Museum, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens (nearby in Palm Desert), and hiking in Indian Canyons. The city also has excellent public parks like Ruth Hardy Park, which is a local favorite for playdates and picnics.