Mortgage Rates in Palm Desert, California — March 2026
Updated March 2026 | Based on Palm Desert market data and regional lending conditions
Palm Desert is a growing city in California with a population of 53,275. The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Palm Desert is 6.88%, which is 0.23% above the national average. With a median home price of $741,000 and a 20% down payment of $148,200, homebuyers can expect a monthly principal and interest payment of approximately $3,896.
Current Mortgage Rates in Palm Desert, CA
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Palm Desert area as of March 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.88% | 6.65% | +0.23% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 6.09% | 5.89% | +0.2% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.33% | 6.15% | +0.18% |
| FHA | 6.56% | 6.25% | +0.31% |
| VA | 6.31% | 6.05% | +0.26% |
| Jumbo | 7.13% | 6.85% | +0.28% |
Palm Desert Housing Market Overview
The Palm Desert housing market is competitive with prices well above the national median. The median household income in Palm Desert is $71,200, and the cost of living index is 145.3 (national average = 100). Based on the 28% affordability rule, you would need an income of approximately $185,743 to comfortably afford the median-priced home in Palm Desert, which exceeds the current median household income.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Palm Desert
Based on the median home price of $741,000 with 20% down ($148,200), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Palm Desert:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Palm Desert
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Palm Desert at 6.09% instead of a 30-year at 6.88% would save you $496,980 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $5,031 instead of $3,896 — an increase of $1,135 per month.
Calculate Your Palm Desert Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Palm Desert
What are the current mortgage rates in Palm Desert, CA?
As of March 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Palm Desert, California is 6.88%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 6.09%. FHA loans average 6.56% and VA loans 6.31%. These rates are 0.23% above the national average of 6.65%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Palm Desert?
Based on the median home price of $741,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Palm Desert is $3,896 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $438/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $4,334.
What income do I need to buy a home in Palm Desert?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $185,743 to afford the median-priced home in Palm Desert at $741,000. The median household income in Palm Desert is $71,200. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $741,000.
Is Palm Desert a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Palm Desert has a higher cost of living than average with a cost of living index of 145.3 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in California is 0.71%, which is below the national average. Palm Desert has a population of 53,275 and offers a balanced lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other California Cities
Related Tools & Guides
Last updated: March 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Palm Desert, California area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.