A quiet suburb in the heart of the Imperial Valley
Located in the heart of the Imperial Valley, about 15 miles north of the border, the city of Imperial is a small but quickly growing suburban enclave. Both the city and the valley were named for the Imperial Land Company, which built the area into an agricultural center in the early 1900s. Today, the city mostly functions as a bedroom community for workers in nearby Brawley, El Centro and the Lithium Valley area, although agriculture still plays a significant role in local culture. “I would say it’s the diamond of Imperial County, kind of a diamond in the rough,” says real estate developer Ray Roben, who has lived in Imperial for over 40 years. “It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in all of California. It’s still a small-town feel, even though the community has grown so much in the last few years."
Imperial’s rich agricultural roots continue to shape its community, thriving alongside new growth.
With a median price of $430K, Imperial offers modern suburban living.
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Modern subdivisions and midcentury ranch-style homes
While the city has been around for over a century, much of its residential development has occurred in the last few decades. The city has a decent selection of midcentury ranch-style homes, but the housing market is mostly composed of contemporary single-family homes, many of which feature Spanish-style design elements. “Most communities are newer subdivisions with their own green spaces and dog parks,” says Roben. The median single-family home price in the city is $430,000. There are also a small number of condos and townhouses in Imperial, which usually list in the $250,000 to $350,000 range.
Imperial’s newer subdivisions provide space for families, parks, and a strong sense of community.
Spacious single-family homes with Spanish-style touches await in Imperial.
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Imperial Unified School District
The Imperial Unified School District oversees public schools in town and has a B grade on Niche. Imperial Valley College is located on the east side of town. The community college maintains an enrollment of around 7,000 students and is the largest post-secondary education provider in the county.
Imperial Valley College helps students build bright futures with career-focused education.
At Imperial High, students discover endless opportunities to succeed.
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Shopping along Route 86
Retail in Imperial is concentrated just south of town along state Route 86, which runs through the center of town, connecting the city to Brawley to the north and El Centro to the south. The area is home to multiple groceries stores, a Walmart and Costco, and the local movie theater, along with a selection of smaller stores. Restaurants are more evenly distributed throughout Imperial, though they still cluster around Route 86.
Costco located just south of Imperial has everything you need, from groceries to gadgets.
Catch the latest blockbusters at Movies Imperial, where every seat offers a great view.
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Off-roading in the desert
Public green spaces like Eager Park are spaced pretty evenly throughout town, offering well-maintained playgrounds and athletic fields. Smaller parks can be found in the newer subdivisions along the edges of town. While the Imperial Valley is mostly made up of farmland, the deserts that surround it are popular with mountain bikers and off-roading enthusiasts — both of which are major pastimes in the area. Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area to the east and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to the west are both about 40 miles away from Imperial by car. Imperial has a hot desert climate and temperatures in the summer can stay in the triple digits for days on end, so residents should take necessary precautions during heat advisories.
Children laugh and play freely while adults unwind at the welcoming Eagar Park in Imperial.
Explore Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where nature and striking sculptures harmonize in the desert landscape.
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California Mid-Winter Fair
Imperial holds the California Mid-Winter Fair and Fiesta every year at the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds. The 10-day festival celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage and features rides, livestock shows and live entertainment. Smaller annual city-sponsored events are held from October through March as part of the city’s Signature Event Series, which includes a Christmas festival, a barbecue cook-off and more.
Getting around Imperial Valley
Transportation in Imperial revolves around state Route 86, which connects the city to El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, and, across the border, Mexicali. Interstate 8 passes 6 miles south of town, connecting to Yuma and San Diego. The Imperial County Airport, located just outside the city limits, offers limited flights but serves as a gateway for private aviation and crop-dusting operations. Public transit is available through Imperial Valley Transit, which runs direct bus routes to Brawley and El Centro.
Written By
Andrew Moreno
Photography Contributed By
Stephen Cammell
Video By
Pasha Chichagov
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Terilyn Menvielle,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Welcome to 2401 Damian St in Imperial, CAa beautifully maintained, move-in ready home located in a quiet and peaceful newer neighborhood. Built just five years ago, this home offers the perfect combination of modern comfort, efficiency, and functionality, making it an excellent opportunity for motivated first-time home buyers. This spacious home features three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms,
Well maintained single-story home in the heart of Imperial 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms at 509 N Imperial Ave. Sitting on a raised foundation with classic curb appeal, this residence feels larger than its footprint thanks to a bright, open flow and well-proportioned rooms. Enjoy an inviting entry, a spacious living room and a separate family room that provide flexible living and entertaining
Centrally located in Imperial, this home sits on a quiet, low-traffic street near schools, grocery stores, and 2 minutes from where Imperial meets El Centro. Priced to sell, it offers a large backyard with rare alley access, providing added flexibility and potential. The home could benefit from some paint and a few cosmetic updates, reflected in the price, making it a practical option for buyers
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Are you looking for an affordable lot to park your vehicles, trucks, mobile home, RV, or containers? What about installing renewable energy sources? Check out this lot near Seeley. Construction of a home is possible with the proper permit from the county and getting water from the IID. Buyers are to do their due diligence about the construction of a home or getting utility connections for
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
472 Palomino Ct is a Plan 1 home at Heritage at Dahlia Ranch, offering a smart and efficient single-story layout designed for comfort and everyday functionality. With 1,366 sq. ft. of thoughtfully planned living space, this home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers, families, or those looking to downsize without compromise.The open-concept
Are you looking for an affordable lot to park your vehicles, trucks, mobile home, RV, or containers? What about installing renewable energy sources? Check out this lot near Seeley. Construction of a home is possible with the proper permit from the county and getting water from the IID. Buyers are to do their due diligence about the construction of a home or getting utility connections for
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Heritage at Dahlia Ranch is the City of Imperial's Newest Residential Neighborhood, located in the award-winning Imperial Unified school district. It is the only new-neighborhood with all single-story homes that feeds directly into Ben Hulse Elementary school. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or someone just looking to upsize or downsize, this neighborhood is perfect for you. With four
Are you looking for a lot to park trucks, mobile homes, RVs, or containers? This 2-acre lot is located west of Seeley and near utilities. It has potential due to recent speculation about lithium in the valley. It offers the possibility of constructing a new home with the proper permits from the county and water access from the IID. Buyers should do their due diligence regarding obtaining power
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. With the opportunity to construct your future home (pending county permits) and explore water access through IID, this property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. Investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Enjoy this 48 Unit 3 Story upscale Apts Elevator, Washer/Dryer in Unit, Pool/Spa area w/ Tables Umbrellas Chairs & Lounges, Community Center w/Kitchen and Lrg TV /Gathering area. Gas & Charcoal Barbeques, Outdoor Dining areas, Well Equipped Fitness Center, Covered Parking.Top Restaurant on Site, Financial/Banking Office on Site.
This great and spacious home is located in the city of Imperial. It has 3 bedrooms 2 baths and lots of space. Great garage to use for storage or parking. Green front lawn and a spacious backyard for your family and friends.
Property Id: 2389708Safe and clean place to rent. Other renters are nice and considered. Nice and safe neighborhood not to far from stores. Two story, 5 bedroom house with plenty of space.
Rental Available now. This exquisite single story home features four bedrooms and two bathrooms. With its impressive layout and generous square footage, you won't be disappointed by all of the incredible features. The open floor plan encompasses plenty of room for study, sleep and storage.
Now available · 655 Silverwood St, Imperial, CAThis is where your family's story begins.Every great memory needs the right home to hold it.Picture Sunday mornings filling every corner of this generous 5,500-square-foot home — the smell of breakfast drifting out from the kitchen, little feet running down the hall, laughter echoing in a living room designed not for show, but for
Great Imperial Location Ground-Level 2 Bed / 2 Bath Condo Experience comfort and convenience in this beautifully appointed ground-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence located in one of Imperial's most desirable neighborhoods.This thoughtfully designed home features high ceilings and an open-concept layout, creating a bright and airy living space ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. The living
Casa Santa Rosa is a beautifully appointed single-level townhome offering a blend of comfort and convenience. It is furnished with all utilities included 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.Casa Santa Rosa suits family vacations, business travel, outdoor work, golfing trips, or exploring the outdoors. Enjoy a relaxing getaway in this versatile and welcoming space.Can be rented on a 3 month or
FOR LEASE Monterrey Subdivision $3,000/month | 1-Year LeaseBeautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the highly desirable Monterrey Subdivision! Features Include:* Custom shades* Elegant wall panels* Interior arches* Upgraded front door* Spacious backyard perfect for family gatherings* Clean, well-kept home in a family-friendly neighborhoodThis home offers comfort, charm, and plenty of space
Downstairs 2 bd 2 ba Sunset Ranch condo in Imperial with small patio, indoor laundry , walk in master closet. There is assigned covered parking and a cool POOL ! Water/sewer/trash is included .
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