Here are all the facts (and some fun extras!) I could dig up about Palm Springs Elevation. I'll dive right in but before I do, if you can visit just one stop, you have to make time for The Palm Springs Art Museum.

Table of Contents

Where Is Palm Springs Located?

Palm Springs sits in Riverside County within Southern California’s Coachella Valley. It’s a sun-drenched escape surrounded by mountains and desert beauty.

Why Palm Springs Is Famous

Expect bold art, stylish architecture, and a retro Hollywood vibe. Palm Springs is known for its creative culture, luxurious retreats, and stunning desert landscapes.

Palm Springs Size and Population

  • Area: 94.98 square miles — the biggest city in Riverside County.
  • Population: Roughly 48,000 residents, giving it a relaxed, small-city feel.

Elevation Basics

Palm Springs is 479 feet (146 m) above sea level — a mid-range elevation perfect for desert living. You’re not in the mountains, but you’re not at sea level either.

A Quick History of Palm Springs

  • First Inhabitants: Native American tribes lived here for centuries.
  • Name Origins: Spanish explorers dubbed it La Palma de la Mano de Dios.
  • Development: Began booming in the 19th century thanks to tourism and natural beauty.
  • Tourism Growth: Hollywood stars built retreats, fueling its popularity.
  • Today: A hotspot for shopping, spas, design, and year-round recreation.

Why Elevation Matters

  • What is Elevation? It’s your height above sea level, affecting climate and air pressure.
  • Palm Springs Elevation: 479 feet (146 m), typical of many U.S. cities.
  • Why It Matters: Impacts weather, biodiversity, and even your comfort during exercise.

Comparing Elevations in California

  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway:
    • Base: 2,634 feet (806 m)
    • Peak: 8,516 feet (2,596 m)
  • Mean Elevation of California: 2,900 feet (880 m)
  • Highest Point: Mount Whitney – 14,505 feet (4,421 m)
  • Lowest Point: Badwater Basin – 279 feet (85 m) below sea level
  • Major Cities Compared:
    • Los Angeles: 285 feet (87 m)
    • San Francisco: 52 feet (16 m)
    • San Diego: 62 feet (19 m)
    • Sacramento: 30 feet (9 m)
    • San Jose: 82 feet (25 m)

Climate and Outdoor Fun

  • Climate Type: Hot desert — sunny skies and minimal rain.
  • Temperature Ranges:
    • Winter highs around 71°F (22°C)
    • Summer peaks up to 108°F (42°C)
  • Annual Rainfall: Less than 5 inches
  • Things to Do: Golf, tennis, hiking, cycling, and riding the Aerial Tramway.
  • Events: Palm Springs International Film Festival, Veterans Day Parade, Festival of Lights Parade.

Plan Your Trip