W
aterfront properties are highly sought after, making desert towns an attractive alternative. Whether you're looking for a vacation home, a full-time residence or an investment property, the desert could be a valuable opportunity. Before investing, research factors such as average home prices, rent prices and quality of life.

    Real estate experts weigh in on buying desert properties. Geoffrey Moore, a Realtor with Town Real Estate in Palm Springs, California, says it's worth investing in the desert, particularly in Palm Springs. "The Coachella Valley is a big draw for retirees seeking a resort lifestyle and remote workers looking to escape crowds and traffic," he explains.

    Prices in Palm Springs have been steadily increasing due to the area's popularity. Moore notes that rents are also high, with fewer rental properties available than in most cities. He attributes the high prices to the area's mid-century architecture and history, making Palm Springs a main draw in the Coachella Valley.

    The price of a nice mid-century modern home in Palm Springs now exceeds $1 million, up significantly from pre-pandemic levels. In contrast, Phoenix offers more affordable housing options, with a median home price of $450,000, compared to New York's $807,718. However, Moore notes that Palm Springs is a more expensive desert area.