Market Overview
Home Prices in Palm Desert, CA
The median home value in Palm Desert, CA is $545,953 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI).That's down 2.3% compared to a year ago and down 2.1% from two years prior.
Compared to the U.S. national median of $410,000, homes in Palm Desert are priced33% above average. Palm Desert is part of the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA metro area.
Over the past five years, Palm Desert home values have risen by approximately20.9%, reflecting strong long-term appreciation in this market.
Price History
Palm Desert Home Price Trend
City Comparison
Palm Desert vs. National Median
At $545,953, homes in Palm Desert cost 33% above the national median of $410,000. Buyers in Palm Desert should expect to pay a premium compared to most U.S. markets.
Affordability
What Does It Cost to Buy in Palm Desert?
20% Down Payment
$109,191
on $545,953
Monthly P&I
$2,847/mo
30-yr @ 6.8%
Total Monthly Est.
~$3,616/mo
incl. taxes & insurance
Income Needed
$144,640
gross annual (30% rule)
10% Down Option
$54,595
+ PMI applies
Loan Amount (20% dn)
$436,762
at current rates
Estimates assume a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.8%. Monthly total includes estimated property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Actual costs vary.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average home price in Palm Desert, CA?
The median home value in Palm Desert is $545,953 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI). That's down 2.3% year-over-year.
How much have home prices changed in Palm Desert?
Over the past year, home values in Palm Desert have decreased by 2.3%. Over five years, prices have risen approximately 20.9%.
How much do I need to earn to buy a home in Palm Desert?
To comfortably afford the median home price of $545,953 with a 20% down payment ($109,191) at today's rates (6.8%), you'd need a gross annual income of approximately $144,640. This assumes keeping total housing costs at or below 30% of gross income.
How does Palm Desert compare to the national average home price?
The national median home value is approximately $410,000. At $545,953, homes in Palm Desert are 33% above the national average.
What metro area is Palm Desert part of?
Palm Desert is part of the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA metropolitan area. Home prices and market conditions can vary across the broader metro region.