Salton City, CA

Salton City sits along the western shore of the Salton Sea, offering a quiet desert lifestyle with plenty of breathing room. Originally planned in the late 1950s as a bustling resort destination, the area was mapped out for far more people than ever arrived. Today, that history leaves behind a vast grid of paved roads with open lots, panoramic mountain views, and some of the lowest housing costs in Southern California. Around 5,000 residents live here, drawn to the peace, quiet, and starry night skies.

ATTRNandaro / CC BY-SA 3.0

Getting around is straightforward thanks to Highway 86, which connects the community north to the Coachella Valley and south to the Imperial Valley for larger grocery runs, healthcare, and dining. Local students attend schools in the Coachella Valley Unified district. While the dry climate and receding shoreline present noticeable dust and summer heat, the area remains an appealing option for anyone wanting extra acreage, privacy, and an escape from crowded suburban living.