Everything You Should Know Before Moving to La Quinta, CA
Considering a move to La Quinta, CA? With a population of about 39,000, this desert oasis features a sunny climate with 84% sunny days and mild winters. The median home price is $650,000 and rent for a two-bedroom averages $2,150. La Quinta boasts a low violent crime rate of 178 per 100K, short average commutes of 23.6 minutes, and strong schools. Enjoy resort-style living, beautiful scenery, and excellent recreation while benefiting from a tight-knit, safe community.
Demographics - La Quinta, CA
Demographics - La Quinta, CA
La Quinta is home to nearly 39,000 residents, with a median age of 49.5, reflecting a mature and diverse population. The city is predominantly White (71.2%), but also includes Hispanic, Asian, and Black communities, with about 23.5% of residents speaking a language other than English. This blend offers a welcoming environment with a suburban feel and a variety of cultural influences.
Population:
38,841
Density:
1,460 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.5
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
71.2%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
3.8%
Others:
23.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in La Quinta, CA?
Living in La Quinta comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, driven largely by housing, with a median home value of $650,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom at $2,150. Everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are also above the national average, and California's state income tax rates can be significant for higher earners. However, residents benefit from the area's amenities, safety, and desirable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$650,000
Gross Rent:
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$190
Auto Insurance:
$1,720
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$850
State Taxes:
Low:
1% (property)
|
High:
13.3% (income)
Cost Of Living Index:
142.0
Grocery:
113.0
Housing:
188.0
Utilities:
114.0
Transportation:
134.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
109.0
Crime
Is La Quinta, CA a safe place to live?
La Quinta offers a relatively safe environment, with a low violent crime rate of 178 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,050 per 100,000. The chances of experiencing violent crime are about 1 in 561, making the city appealing for families and retirees seeking peace of mind. Community policing and active neighborhood involvement contribute to its overall safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
178
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,228
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 561
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in La Quinta, CA year-round?
La Quinta enjoys a classic desert climate, boasting 84% sunny days annually and mild winters with highs around 70°F. Summers are hot, with temperatures frequently reaching 108°F, but rainfall is minimal at just 3.2 inches per year. This weather is ideal for those who love sunshine and outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
42°F
Max:
70°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
88°F
Summer
Min:
76°F
Max:
108°F
Fall
Min:
58°F
Max:
91°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
3.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
84%
Neighbors
Residents of La Quinta enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, with a median household income of $87,750 and a family income exceeding $100,000. The community has a well-educated population—over 88% have at least a high school diploma—and a relatively low poverty rate of 10.3%. Short commutes and a strong sense of community make it an attractive place to settle.
Median Income:
$49,100
Household Income:
$87,750
Family Income:
$107,000
Per Capita Income:
$49,700
Income Male:
$55,500
Income Female:
$43,200
Poverty Rate:
10.3%
Non English Speakers:
34.0%
Rent:
$2,150
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.3%
Commute Time:
23.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.4%
Bachelors or More:
36.1%
Education
How are the schools in La Quinta, CA?
Families in La Quinta benefit from strong educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools like La Quinta High School and close access to higher education at College of the Desert just 7 miles away. Student-teacher ratios are around 23:1, and private school options are also available. The city’s commitment to education is reflected in high graduation rates and a supportive learning environment.
Public Schools
Name:
La Quinta High School
Street:
79255 Blackhawk Way
Phone:
760-772-4150
Students:
2,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
23:1
Name:
Amelia Earhart Elementary
Street:
45250 Dune Palms Rd
Phone:
760-772-0600
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
25:1
Private Schools
Name:
Grace Academy
Street:
79440 Highway 111
Phone:
760-777-9353
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
College of the Desert
City:
Palm Desert
State:
CA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
13,000
Healthcare
La Quinta provides convenient access to quality healthcare, including local clinics and the nearby John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital offering emergency services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, residents benefit from comprehensive medical support. The city’s healthcare system is well-rated, ensuring peace of mind for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Eisenhower Health Center at La Quinta
Address:
45280 Seeley Dr, La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone:
(760) 773-1460
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital
Address:
47111 Monroe St, Indio, CA 92201
Phone:
(760) 347-6191
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
76.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in La Quinta, CA?
The housing market in La Quinta is robust, with a median home price of $650,000 and owner-occupancy rates above 70%. Home values have appreciated by 7.4% in the past year, reflecting strong demand and investment potential. Rental options are available, but the market remains competitive with a low vacancy rate and steady new construction.
Median Home Price:
$650,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
La Quinta residents can access full DMV services at the nearby California Department of Motor Vehicles in Palm Desert. The DMV provides licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle services for the La Quinta area. Residents can also utilize the DMV’s online resources for added convenience.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
44-400 Monterey Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.