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Desert Center, CA

California · Imperial County · El Centro Metro

Desert Center is a small town in California with a population of 167. Residents earn $72,857 per year, which is 3% below the national average.

2.9 /5.0
C+ Fair
167 Population 5/sq mi density
$72,857 Median Income $25,685 per capita
$221,200 Home Value $258,145 Zillow
$1,192 Median Rent 22.1% income on rent
74°F Avg Temperature 330 sunny days/yr
353 Violent Crime/100K 177 property/100K
C+
Overall
2.9 / 5.0
Fair overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education
B
Economy
3.4 / 5.0
$72,857 median income, 5.9% unemployment
A+
Affordability
5.0 / 5.0
$221,200 home value, $1,192/mo rent
F
Safety
1.0 / 5.0
353 violent crimes/100K (7% below avg)
C
Education
2.2 / 5.0
15.0% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Desert Center, CA

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile
Median Income $72,857
3% lower than US avg
Home Value $221,200
22% lower than US avg
Violent Crime 353/100K
7% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+ 15.0%
55% lower than US avg
Median Rent $1,192
2% higher than US avg
Obesity Rate 43.4%
35% higher than US avg
Unemployment 5.9%
64% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate 14.0%
13% higher than US avg

How Desert Center Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population167
Median Age49.2 yrs
Density5/mi²
Male / Female58% / 42%
Largest GroupWhite 56%
Veterans7.9%

Economy

B
Median Income$72,857
Per Capita$25,685
Unemployment5.9%
Poverty14.0%
County GDP$12,907M
Commute12 min

Housing

A+
Home Value$221,200
Rent$1,192
Ownership67.2%
Zillow$258,145
Housing Units184
Rent Burden22.1%

Crime

F
Violent353/100K
Property177/100K

Health

Obesity43.4%
Uninsured15.7%
Smoking21.3%
Depression28.4%
Heart Disease7.8%

Climate

Avg Temp74°F (23°C)
AQI48 (Good)
Rain3.7 in/yr
Sunny Days330/yr
Elevation650 ft (198 m)

Education

C
Bachelor's+15.0%
High School+98.6%
Graduate+11.2%
School Score4.07

Community

2024 VoteR 49% / D 48%
Commute12 min
Broadband64.0%
Libraries12

Is Desert Center a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Desert Center receives an overall livability score of 2.9 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, a high uninsured rate, high obesity rates. Desert Center has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Desert Center is $72,857, roughly in line with the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.9% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. 14.0% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 12 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Desert Center is $221,200, 22% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $1,192 per month. At just 3x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.

Safety & Crime

Violent crime in Desert Center is below the national average at 353 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 177 per 100,000, 91% below the national average.

Education

15.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 98.6% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 4.1/10.

Climate & Weather

Desert Center has a warm climate with an average annual temperature of 74°F. Winters average 55°F in January while summers reach 94°F in July. With 330 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 3.7 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 48.

Desert Center has a population of 167 with a density of 5 people per square mile, spread across 30.4 square miles. The median age is 49.2 years, 26% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 41.9% female and 58.1% male. The city is predominantly White (55.7%), with 3.6% Hispanic, 7.2% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 88.5% of residents, while 11.5% speak Spanish. 7.9% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 12.6% of residents have a disability. 97.9% have health insurance coverage.

Population

167
Total Population
5
People / sq mi
49.2yrs
Median Age
26% above US avg
30.4mi²
Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 58.1%
Female 41.9%

Race & Ethnicity

Desert Center vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 88.5%
13% above US avg
Spanish 11.5%
14% below US avg

Social Characteristics

Desert Center vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Desert Center is $72,857, which is 3% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $25,685 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,051, 27% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 5.9% (above the 3.6% US average). 14.0% of residents live below the poverty line. The area has 9,795 business establishments, including 280 restaurants. The cost of living index is 110.7, slightly above the national baseline of 100. Workers commute an average of 12 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 5.9% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Desert Center vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income$72,857
3% below US avg
Per Capita Income$25,685
Avg Weekly Wage$1,051
IRS Avg AGI$50,076
Gini Index0.459 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment5.9%
64% above US avg
Poverty Rate14.0%
13% above US avg
Establishments (County)9,795
County GDP$12,907M

Business (County)

Restaurants280
Healthcare322
Retail429
Manufacturing68

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)$4,268
22% above US avg
Cost of Living110.70 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate1.93%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time12.2 min
Drive Alone58.8%
Public Transit0.0%
Work from Home5.9%

Walkability

The median home value in Desert Center is $221,200, 22% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $258,145, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $1,192 (2% above the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $1,647 for a one-bedroom to $2,053 for a two-bedroom apartment. 67.2% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 184 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1988. The average annual property tax is $4,268 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 22.1% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 3x, well within the affordable range.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median$221,200
22% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI$258,145

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent$1,192
2% above US avg
Rent Burden22.1%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio$1,513
1 Bedroom$1,647
2 Bedrooms$2,053
3 Bedrooms$2,752
4 Bedrooms$3,165

Ownership & Property

Homeownership67.2%
Owner-Occupied67.2%
Renter-Occupied32.8%
Housing Units184
Median Year Built1988

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)$4,268
22% above US avg
Effective Rate1.93%
In Desert Center, 43.4% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 13.6% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 7.8% of residents, above the national average. 37.0% have high blood pressure. 21.3% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 14.3% report binge drinking. 35.7% are physically inactive, above the national average. 28.4% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 23.5% experience frequent mental distress. 15.7% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:3,997. The dentist ratio is 1:3,081. 81.6% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 6.1 out of 10.

Health Metrics: Desert Center vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity43.4%
35% above US avg
Diabetes13.6%
Heart Disease7.8%
High Blood Pressure37.0%
Asthma11.6%
COPD10.0%
Cancer6.6%
Stroke4.4%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking21.3%
52% above US avg
Binge Drinking14.3%
Physical Inactivity35.7%
Depression28.4%
Mental Distress23.5%
Physical Distress19.8%
Short Sleep40.4%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate97.9%
Uninsured15.7%
83% above US avg
Primary Care1:3,997
Dentists1:3,081
Mental Health1:487
Checkup Rate69.6%
Dental Visits54.8%
Premature Death8,703/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment6.1/10
Exercise Access81.6%
Healthcare Facilities322
Desert Center has a violent crime rate of 353 per 100,000 residents, 7% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 177 per 100,000, 91% below the U.S. average. The county recorded 36 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Desert Center receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Desert Center vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent353.4/100K
7% below US avg

Property Crime

Total Property176.7/100K
91% below US avg

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)36
Traffic Accidents50
Avg Accident Severity2.6 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety GradeF
Safety Score1.0 / 5.0
View full crime details →
Desert Center has a warm climate with an average annual temperature of 74°F (23°C). Winters average 55°F in January while summers reach 94°F in July. The area gets 330 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 3.7 inches (drier than the 38-inch national average). Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 48. The city sits at an elevation of 650 feet.

Temperature

55°F Jan (13°C) 94°F Jul (34°C)
Annual Average73.6°F
36% above US avg
January Average55°F (13°C)
July Average94°F (34°C)
Sunny Days330 days/yr

Geography

Elevation650 ft (198 m)
Area30.4 sq mi (78.8 km²)
Population Density5/sq mi
Coordinates33.7378°N, 115.3666°W
TimezoneAmerica/Los_Angeles
CountyImperial County County
Nearest AirportJacqueline Cochran Regional (TRM)
46 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 3.7"
90% below US avg
Snowfall 0.0"
Wettest Month (Aug) 0.59"
Driest Month (May) 0.04"

Air Quality

AQI Median48.0
RatingGood

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Ozone (O₃)0.0502 ppm
NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide)13.9 ppb
SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide)0.52 ppb
CO (Carbon Monoxide)0.25 ppm
PM2.5 (Fine Particles)9.1 μg/m³

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall RiskRelatively High
Risk Score96.5 / 100
Social Vulnerability85.2 / 100
Community Resilience2.4 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado Very Low
Hurricane Very Low
Earthquake Relatively High
Wildfire Relatively Low
Flood Relatively High
Hail Very Low
Strong Wind Relatively Moderate
Heat Wave Relatively Moderate
Winter Weather Very Low
Lightning Very Low
Drought Relatively Moderate
Cold Wave No Rating
Landslide Very Low
Volcano Relatively Low
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Earthquake History

12,228 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990. Strongest: M7.3. Most recent: M2.5 on Aug 17, 2025.

Jun 28, 1992 The 1992 Landers, California Earthquake M7.3 111 km
Oct 16, 1999 The 1999 Hector Mine, California Earthquake M7.1 127 km
Jun 28, 1992 The 1992 Big Bear, California Earthquake M6.3 144 km
Apr 23, 1992 The 1992 Joshua Tree, California Earthquake M6.1 91 km
Dec 30, 2009 12km N of Delta, B.C., MX M5.8 143 km
Oct 16, 1999 13km WSW of Ludlow, CA M5.8 135 km
Jun 28, 1992 3km NE of Yucca Valley, California M5.8 106 km
Jun 15, 2010 8km ESE of Ocotillo, CA M5.7 126 km
Jun 28, 1992 2km SSW of Joshua Tree, California M5.7 98 km
Jun 29, 1992 3km ESE of Yucca Valley, California M5.7 104 km
Jun 28, 1992 11km SSE of Big Bear Lake, California M5.5 145 km
Jun 28, 1992 0km E of Yucca Valley, CA M5.5 106 km
Jul 5, 1992 21km SW of Ludlow, California M5.4 129 km
Jul 7, 2010 20km NNW of Borrego Springs, CA M5.4 109 km
Aug 26, 2012 4km NNW of Brawley, CA M5.4 82 km
Jun 28, 1992 26km NNW of Yucca Valley, CA M5.4 125 km
Oct 16, 1999 32km SSW of Ludlow, California M5.4 113 km
Jul 1, 1992 24km N of Yucca Valley, California M5.3 121 km
Aug 26, 2012 5km NNW of Brawley, CA M5.3 82 km
Sep 15, 1992 9km SE of Yucca Valley, California M5.3 99 km
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)

Tornado History

11 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF3. Total: 8 injuries.

Date Rating Distance Fatalities
Feb 9, 1978 EF3 39 km 0
Aug 16, 1973 EF3 69 km 0
Aug 6, 2015 EF1 71 km 0
Apr 21, 2015 EF0 8 km 0
Jan 21, 2010 EF0 63 km 0
Jul 7, 2001 EF0 98 km 0
Aug 30, 2000 EF0 87 km 0
May 20, 1997 EF0 100 km 0
Jul 27, 1987 EF0 77 km 0
Sep 18, 1985 EF0 58 km 0
Jun 7, 1972 EF0 57 km 0
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)

Nearby Volcanoes

1 volcano within 200 km. Closest: Salton Buttes (64 km).

Name Type Elevation Last Eruption Distance
Salton Buttes Lava dome(s) -40 m (-131 ft) 210 64 km
Source: Smithsonian Institution Global Volcanism Program (GVP). Sorted by distance.

Wildfire History

17 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km. Largest: JUNIPER COMPLEX (FIRE #3) (13,479 ac, 1999).

Year Name Acres Distance
1999 JUNIPER COMPLEX (FIRE #3) 13,479 85 km
1995 COVINGTON 5,457 93 km
2022 LOST LAKE 5,455 88 km
2006 CIBOLA 4,703 77 km
2011 THREE SLASHES 4,581 80 km
1984 LOST HORSE 4,130 88 km
2005 BOSQUE 3,381 81 km
1995 LOST LAKE 2,846 89 km
2006 PUSHWALLA 2,468 69 km
1992 WALTERS 2,170 81 km
1999 JUNIPER COMPLEX (JUNIPER) 1,828 95 km
2006 WHISPERING PINES 1,425 97 km
1986 COLORADO 2 1,403 86 km
2021 CLIP 1,295 93 km
1987 PAUL 1,145 87 km
2023 GEOLOGY 1,068 65 km
1990 YOCUM 1,006 70 km
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)

Monthly Weather

Month Avg Temperature Precipitation Summary
January 55°F (13°C) 0.4 in
February 59°F (15°C) 0.4 in
March 63°F (17°C) 0.4 in
April 70°F (21°C) 0.1 in
May 79°F (26°C) 0.0 in Driest
June 88°F (31°C) 0.0 in
July 94°F (34°C) 0.4 in Warmest
August 92°F (33°C) 0.6 in Wettest
September 86°F (30°C) 0.4 in
October 74°F (23°C) 0.3 in
November 62°F (17°C) 0.3 in
December 54°F (12°C) 0.4 in Coldest

Desert Center has a seasonal temperature swing of 40°F / from 54°F in December to 94°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 3.6 inches, with August being the wettest month (0.6") and May the driest (0.0").

View full weather details →
Desert Center is located in Imperial County. It is classified as Metro / under 250K, part of a metropolitan area. 15.0% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 55% below the national average of 33.7%. 98.6% have completed high school. 11.2% hold a graduate or professional degree. Area schools have an average test score of 4.1 out of 10. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 49.1% of the vote, a 0.9-point margin. 64.0% of households have broadband internet access (below the 90.0% national rate). There are 12 public libraries serving the community. 322 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 58.8% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 49.1%
D 48.3%

Winner: Republican by 0.9 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)36
Traffic Accidents50
Avg Accident Severity2.6 / 4.0
F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+15.0%
55% below US avg
High School+98.6%
Graduate Degree+11.2%
School Test Score4.07
C Education Grade (2.2/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 3Metro / under 250K
Population Density5/sq mi
Total Area30.4 sq mi
CountyImperial County County

Services

Broadband Access64.0%
Avg Download Speed80.7 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed3.6 Mbps
Max Download Speed987 Mbps
Public Libraries12
Healthcare Facilities322
Restaurants280
Retail Stores429

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute12.2 min
Drive Alone58.8%
Public Transit0.0%
Work from Home5.9%
Average costs for common services in Desert Center. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.

Healthcare

Doctor Visit (Primary Care) $277 ($166–$443)
Specialist Visit $387 ($221–$609)
Urgent Care Visit $221 ($111–$387)
Emergency Room Visit $2,435 ($886–$5,535)
Dental Cleaning $144 ($83–$221)
Dental Filling $277 ($166–$443)
View all 40 services

Auto Repair

Oil Change (Conventional) $50 ($28–$83)
Oil Change (Synthetic) $83 ($55–$133)
Brake Pad Replacement $332 ($166–$554)
Tire Rotation $44 ($22–$83)
New Tires (Set of 4) $664 ($443–$1,107)
Battery Replacement $221 ($111–$387)
View all 18 services

Home Services

Plumber (Per Hour) $111 ($66–$166)
Electrician (Per Hour) $100 ($55–$155)
HVAC Repair $443 ($166–$886)
HVAC System Install $7,749 ($4,428–$13,284)
Roof Repair $1,107 ($443–$2,214)
Roof Replacement $9,963 ($6,089–$16,605)
View all 25 services

Legal

Divorce (Uncontested) $1,661 ($554–$3,875)
Divorce (Contested) $16,605 ($5,535–$33,210)
DUI Defense $5,535 ($2,214–$11,070)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) $1,661 ($886–$3,321)
Will Preparation $554 ($221–$1,107)
Trust Preparation $2,768 ($1,107–$5,535)
View all 12 services

Personal Care

Men's Haircut $28 ($17–$50)
Women's Haircut $61 ($33–$111)
Hair Coloring (Full) $166 ($83–$277)
Manicure $28 ($17–$50)
Pedicure $44 ($28–$72)
Massage (1 Hour) $89 ($55–$144)
View all 12 services

Food & Grocery

Gallon of Milk (per gallon) $4.54 ($3.32–$6.09)
Dozen Eggs (per dozen) $3.87 ($2.77–$5.54)
Loaf of Bread $4.21 ($2.77–$6.09)
Chicken Breast (per lb) $4.98 ($3.32–$7.20)
Ground Beef (per lb) $6.09 ($4.43–$8.30)
Rice (per lb) $1.11 ($0.66–$1.99)
View all 20 services

Utilities

Electricity (Monthly) $155 ($89–$277)
Natural Gas (Monthly) $77 ($33–$166)
Water/Sewer (Monthly) $77 ($44–$133)
Internet (Monthly) $77 ($44–$111)
Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) $72 ($33–$111)
Cable TV (Monthly) $94 ($55–$166)
View all 8 services

Transportation

Monthly Parking (Downtown) $221 ($83–$554)
Car Insurance (Annual) $2,214 ($1,328–$3,875)
Bus Pass (Monthly) $77 ($33–$144)
Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) $17 ($8.86–$28)
Car Registration (Annual) $111 ($33–$277)
Driver's License Renewal $33 ($17–$83)
View all 8 services

Education & Childcare

Daycare (Infant, Monthly) $1,328 ($664–$2,768)
Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) $1,107 ($554–$2,214)
After-School Care (Monthly) $443 ($221–$775)
Tutoring (Per Hour) $55 ($28–$111)
SAT/ACT Prep Course $1,107 ($443–$2,768)
Private School (K-12, Annual) $13,838 ($5,535–$33,210)
View all 8 services

Pets

Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) $66 ($33–$111)
Dog Vaccination (Annual) $111 ($55–$221)
Dog Grooming $66 ($33–$111)
Pet Boarding (Per Night) $44 ($22–$83)
Dog Spay/Neuter $332 ($166–$554)
Cat Spay/Neuter $221 ($111–$443)
View all 9 services

Childcare

Center-Based (monthly)
Infant$960
Toddler$760
Preschool$698
Family Childcare (monthly)
Infant$821
Toddler$801
Preschool$778
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)

Top Industries in Imperial County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry Jobs Establishments Avg Annual Pay Location Quotient
Health Care & Social Assistance 11,067 6,881 $34,025 1.15
Retail Trade 8,192 444 $35,892 1.22
Accommodation & Food Services 4,228 262 $28,015 0.69
Manufacturing 2,197 68 $64,041 0.40
Administrative & Waste Services 2,064 138 $49,646 0.52
Transportation & Warehousing 1,967 255 $58,577 0.69
Wholesale Trade 1,757 198 $72,062 0.66
Construction 1,719 193 $66,705 0.49
Professional & Technical Services 1,036 188 $62,117 0.22
Other Services 1,013 207 $42,969 0.50
Finance & Insurance 626 110 $60,066 0.23
Utilities 548 14 $126,911 2.15
Real Estate 541 166 $50,546 0.52
Educational Services 232 22 $32,487 0.17
Information & Technology 212 24 $55,799 0.17
Arts & Entertainment 176 19 $23,878 0.16
Management of Companies 124 6 $81,663 0.11
Unclassified 20 6 $19,290 0.21

Schools in Desert Center

1 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School Level Enrollment Teachers Student/Teacher
Eagle Mountain Elementary Elementary 25 3 8.3:1
View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Desert Center

0 stations within ~55 km.

Station Genre Quality

Campgrounds Near Desert Center

5 campgrounds found near Desert Center.

NameRatingSitesPrice
COTTONWOOD GROUP 4.7/5 3 $55
COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND (CA) 4.4/5 59 $35
Coon Hollow Campground Free
Corn Springs Campground Free
Wiley's Well Campground Free

National Parks Near Desert Center

5 national parks and monuments found near Desert Center.

ParkTypeFee
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park State Park Free
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park State Park Free
Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area Free
Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (Limited Use) Free
Joshua Tree National Park National Park $30

Cafes in Desert Center

1 cafes within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Desert Center Cafe

Golf Courses in Desert Center

1 golf courses within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Lake Tamarisk Golf Course

EV Charging Stations in Desert Center

NameAddressNetworkLevel 2DC FastConnectorsAccess
CNTYOFRIVERSIDE LAKE TAM LIB43880 Tamarisk DrChargePoint Network2J1772public

Cell Towers in Desert Center

AddressStructure TypeHeight (ft)
CHUCKWALLA PEAK (12334)MTOWER36
CHUCKWALLA PEAK (12334)MTOWER36
CHUCKWALLA CELL SITE: 6 MILES SW OFTOWER36

Power Plants Near Desert Center

NameTypePrimary FuelCapacity (MW)Status
RICE SOLAR ENERGYNOT AVAILABLENOT AVAILABLE-114.8NOT AVAILABLE
DESERT SUNLIGHT 250 LLCSOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC221114-115.4OP
DESERT SUNLIGHT 300 LLCSOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC221114-115.4OP

Bridges in Desert Center

LocationTypeKindYear BuiltLength (ft)Daily TrafficCondition
Girder/FloorbeamConcrete continuous196713727,300G
Girder/FloorbeamConcrete continuous196713727,300G
SlabConcrete continuous196713223,100F
SlabConcrete continuous196711023,100G
SlabConcrete continuous196713223,100F
SlabConcrete continuous19676623,100G
SlabConcrete continuous19676623,100G
SlabConcrete continuous196710023,100G
SlabConcrete continuous196710023,100G
SlabConcrete continuous19677823,100G
SlabConcrete continuous19677823,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19678423,000F
Box Beam (Multiple)Prestressed concrete201510523,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19678423,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19679323,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19679323,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19677523,000F
SlabConcrete continuous19677523,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19679923,000G
SlabConcrete continuous19679923,000F
SlabConcrete continuous19676823,000F
SlabConcrete continuous19676823,000F
SlabConcrete continuous196710823,000F
SlabConcrete continuous196710823,000F
Tee BeamConcrete continuous19679823,000G
Tee BeamConcrete continuous19679823,000G
CulvertConcrete continuous19672223,000F
CulvertConcrete continuous19672223,000F
SlabConcrete continuous19679023,000G
CulvertConcrete continuous19673323,000F
CulvertConcrete continuous19673323,000G
SlabConcrete continuous196611021,400G
SlabConcrete continuous19668021,400G
SlabConcrete continuous19668021,400G
SlabConcrete continuous19667521,400G
SlabConcrete continuous19667521,400G
SlabConcrete continuous196611021,400G
SlabConcrete continuous19669021,400F
SlabConcrete continuous19679021,400F
CulvertConcrete continuous19672211,500F
SlabConcrete continuous19675211,500G
CulvertConcrete continuous19672211,500G
Tee BeamConcrete continuous196710911,500G
Tee BeamConcrete continuous196710111,500G
SlabConcrete continuous196711011,500G
SlabConcrete continuous19678011,500G
SlabConcrete continuous19678011,500G
SlabConcrete continuous19677211,500G
SlabConcrete continuous19677211,500G
SlabConcrete continuous19675211,500G
SlabConcrete continuous196613010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196623010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196623010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196618010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196618010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196613010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196613010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19667510,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196613010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196612210,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196612010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19668210,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19668010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19667210,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19667010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196611510,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196611510,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19669010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19669010,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196611510,700G
SlabConcrete continuous196611510,700G
SlabConcrete continuous19667510,700G
CulvertConcrete continuous1935501,428G
CulvertConcrete1935351,428G
Box Beam (Multiple)Concrete continuous19661911,200G
CulvertConcrete198223200G
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber193240200G
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber193259200G
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber193278200F
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber193240200F
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber193260200G
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber193260200F
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber1932289200F
Box Beam (Multiple)Concrete continuous1967248140F
CulvertConcrete19612340F
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber19315840P
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber19316040F
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber19314140P
Stringer/Multi-beamWood or Timber19316040P

Airports Near Desert Center

27 airports within the area.

AirportIATAType
Blythe AirportBLHMedium Airport
Bauer AirportSmall Airport
Blue Mountain AirfieldSmall Airport
Brawley Municipal AirportBWCSmall Airport
Broadway AirportSmall Airport
Chiriaco Summit AirportSmall Airport
Cliff Hatfield Memorial AirportCLRSmall Airport
Cones FieldSmall Airport
Crosswinds AirportSmall Airport
Desert Air Sky Ranch AirportSmall Airport
Desert Center AirportSmall Airport
Eagle Mountain Metropolitan Water District AirstripSmall Airport
Glamis Landing StripSmall Airport
Iron Mountain Pumping Plant AirportSmall Airport
Julian Hinds Pump Plant AirstripSmall Airport
LZ Phantom AirfieldSmall Airport
Midland AirportSmall Airport
Midland AirportSmall Airport
Reeves AirstripSmall Airport
Salton Sea AirportSASSmall Airport
Speed Bag UAS StripSmall Airport
Standard Mine / Arlington Mine AirportSmall Airport
Twentynine Palms AirportTNPSmall Airport
Val-Air AirportSmall Airport
Walters Camp AirportSmall Airport
WISS AirfieldSmall Airport
Wonder Valley Landing StripSmall Airport

Police Stations in Desert Center

0 police stations.

StationAddressPhone

Post Offices in Desert Center

1 post offices.

Post OfficeAddress
United States Post Office - Desert Center, California44300 Ragsdale Road

Churches & Religious Organizations in Desert Center

1 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

NameAddress
DESERT CENTER COMMUNITY CHURCHPO BOX 476

Explore Near Desert Center

UFO Sightings
14
Reported UFO sightings from the National UFO Reporting Center database
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Historic Markers
7
Officially designated historical markers from the Historical Marker Database
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Meteorites
3
Confirmed meteorite landing sites recorded in NASA meteorite catalog
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Mines
2
Active and inactive mining sites tracked by the Mine Safety and Health Administration
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Hot Springs
1
Natural geothermal hot springs from NOAA geothermal database
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Frequently Asked Questions About Desert Center

What is the population of Desert Center?

Desert Center has a population of 167 residents and is located in California. The population density is 5 people per square mile, spread across 30.4 square miles. The median age of residents is 49.2 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 41.9% female and 58.1% male.

Is Desert Center expensive to live in?

Desert Center is slightly more expensive than average, with a cost of living index of 110.7 compared to the national baseline of 100. The median household income is $72,857, 3% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $221,200 (22% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,192 per month. The home price-to-income ratio is 3x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Desert Center safe?

Desert Center is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 353 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 177 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Desert Center receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Desert Center?

Desert Center has a warm climate with an average annual temperature of 74°F (23°C). Winter temperatures average 55°F in January, while summers reach an average of 94°F in July. The area receives 330 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 3.7 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 48.

How is the job market in Desert Center?

The unemployment rate in Desert Center is 5.9%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $1,051. There are 9,795 business establishments in the area, including 280 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 12 minutes, and 5.9% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Desert Center?

The median home value in Desert Center is $221,200. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $258,145. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,192. Fair market rent is $1,647 for a 1-bedroom and $2,053 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 67.2%. The average annual property tax is $4,268.

How are the schools in Desert Center?

Schools in Desert Center have an average test score of 4.1 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 15.0% of adults in Desert Center hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 98.6% have completed high school. 11.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Desert Center?

The obesity rate in Desert Center is 43.4% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 21.3% of adults are smokers. 35.7% are physically inactive. 28.4% of residents report depression. 15.7% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 81.6% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:3,997.

What is transportation like in Desert Center?

The average commute in Desert Center is 12 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 58.8% of workers drive alone to work, and 5.9% work from home.

What are the demographics of Desert Center?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Desert Center is 55.7% White, 7.2% Black or African American, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino. 88.5% of residents speak only English at home, while 11.5% speak Spanish. 7.9% of the population are military veterans. 12.6% of residents have a disability. 97.9% have health insurance coverage.

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