Cost of Living in Indian Wells, CA

With a cost of living index of 151, Indian Wells, CA is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 51% more expensive than the national average and 7% above the California state average of 144. Indian Wells is a small community of 4,830 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Indian Wells's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,029 (22% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $1,002,200 (229% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 6.9x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in Indian Wells is $145,313, which is 93% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 8% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Indian Wells. The area sees an average annual temperature of 72.5°F, with summers averaging 89°F and winters around 56°F. Annual rainfall totals 3 inches spread over roughly 15 days. Hot summers are common, which can affect utility costs and lifestyle.

Everyday prices in the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.