Palm Springs’ cost of living is higher than the national average but still far more affordable than coastal California cities like Los Angeles or San Diego. Housing costs are the primary driver, but with physician-level compensation, you’ll enjoy a comfortable lifestyle that balances luxury with practicality.
For context, a urologist earning a typical MGMA mid-to-high percentile salary will find that their income stretches significantly further here than in metropolitan California markets. You can live in a spacious home with mountain views while enjoying all the amenities of a resort city.
Palm Springs is known for its distinctive mid-century modern homes, often with clean lines, open floor plans, and stunning mountain backdrops. Gated communities, golf course estates, and modern desert villas offer a wide spectrum of choices.
In the Coachella Valley, physicians often choose homes in Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, or Palm Desert, balancing commute times with lifestyle preferences. New construction is available in master-planned communities, while historic neighborhoods offer unique architectural character.
Palm Springs offers a reassuring level of safety, especially compared to larger metropolitan areas. While tourism increases activity downtown, residential neighborhoods are peaceful, well-maintained, and served by responsive local police and emergency services.
Many physicians choose gated communities for an added layer of security, but even outside those areas, you’ll find strong neighborhood networks and community watch programs. Natural disaster risks, like earthquakes, are mitigated by California’s strict building codes and emergency preparedness systems.