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
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Rare opportunity to own a spacious property designed for flexible living on a generous 1/2 acre cul-de-sac lot. This impressive single story residence offers approximately 2,650 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, providing the ideal layout for both everyday living and entertaining. The open kitchen features a center island, pantry, and seamless connection to the dining area, creating a
Veronica Valdez-WilliamsColdwell Banker The Wilkinson Team
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 and power 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
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
Are you looking for an affordable lot to park your vehicles, trucks, mobile homes, 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 mobile
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. For investors and buyers, it's crucial to
Have you ever dreamt of having a specialized vegetable farm? What about an Orchard or date tree farming? These may be very profitable. An excellent opportunity to purchase 3 lots with APN 040-290-002, 040-290-001, and 040-270-008 with approximately 73.98 acres. Please refer to the attached document for available water rights or contact IID to discuss potential options. The land parcels are
Unlock the potential of this A-2-RE zoned lot, ideally situated near Seeley. Store your RV, vehicles, and other equipment. This property is brimming with possibilities. Zoned for general, agricultural, or renewable energy projects, this lot offers versatility to meet your unique needs. It is crucial to conduct due diligence to confirm that the zoning will permit the buyer's intended use of the
Endless possibilities await with this incredible 42.25 -acre property, featuring fertile land and valuable canal water access. Located on the north side of the canal. Located on the Northside of the canal, approximately 30 acres offer a clean, flat landscape previously used to grow Bermuda grass-making is ideal for farming, development, or investment.The property is enhanced with mature
Welcome to 475 Palomino Ct at Heritage at Dahlia Ranch a thoughtfully designed Plan 4 offering 1,669 sq. ft. of single-story living with the added flexibility of a private 1 bed, 1 bath JADU in place of the garage. Perfect for multi-generational living, guests, rental income potential, or a private office setup, this unique layout offers exceptional versatility. The main home features an
483 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
484 Palomino Ct is a stunning Plan 6 home at Heritage at Dahlia Ranch, the community's most expansive single-story layout, offering 2,260 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. This versatile floor plan includes five spacious bedrooms, with an optional sixth bedroom to accommodate growing families or multi-generational living. Three bedrooms feature walk-in closets, providing ample
Discover the perfect setting for your custom dream home on this spacious 1.25acre residential country lot. Ideally positioned with prime road frontage and located directly across from a planned future development, this property offers both tranquility and long-term potential. Enjoy the freedom to design a home tailored to your lifestyle, with ample room for privacy, outdoor living, and personal
We rent apartments, condos, and houses in El Centro and Imperial.Upgraded, very nice, clean, and spacious unit located in a well-maintained complex. Comes with community pool, stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, and a washer and dryer in the unit. We pay water, sewer, trash; you pay gas and electricity. We're pet friendly with conditions.
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.
Property Id: 2453669safe neighborhood. Two story 5 bedroom home. One room downstairs for rent with bathroom next to it. Large kitchen and Livingroom. Large yard. Street parking. Friendly renters and neighbors. No pets please
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.
Beautiful 3-bed, 2 bath home + bonus office/TV room available now! Located in a highly desirable area with a great school district. -Full of charm with high ceilings -Cozy fireplace -Ceiling fans throughout -Spacious backyard with covered patio perfect for entertaining ***Solar panels to help save on electricity*** This home has the perfect mix of comfort, character, and energy efficiency!
Blanca OrtizOrtiz Real Estate Services
$1,850 per month
Your New Home 3 Bed Rentals Awaits: Comfort, Convenience & Community!
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Imperial, CA offers a comfortable layout and essential kitchen appliances for everyday living. The kitchen includes a dishwasher, stove, and microwave with range hood. Well-proportioned bedrooms and two full bathrooms provide practical space for residents. Located in Imperial, the property combines functional interior features with great floor plan for ease of
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.
Welcome to 2684 Jade Tree St., Imperial — a refreshed 4-bedroom, 3-bath home featuring a versatile loft and a convenient downstairs bedroom with a full bath. The interior has been freshly painted and offers low-maintenance vinyl plank flooring throughout. The kitchen includes all appliances for move-in convenience. This home combines practical layout and updated finishes in a desirable Imperial
3 bdrm 2 1/2 ba dual level town home with 2 car garage, granite kitchen with large pantry, indoor laundry room, oval tub in Mbath, with community play & BBQ area.
1100 Rodeo Dr #745, ImperialAvailable Now! Don’t miss your chance to move into this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo—perfect for comfortable, low-maintenance living! Features You’ll Love:• 3 spacious bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms• Bright, open living area perfect for relaxing or entertaining• Well-equipped kitchen with plenty of storage• Clean, modern feel
Available Now! Don't miss your chance to move into this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo perfect for comfortable, low-maintenance living! Features You'll Love:* 3 spacious bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms* Bright, open living area perfect for relaxing or entertaining* Well-equipped kitchen with plenty of storage* Clean, modern feel throughout* Located in a desirable, quiet community
RITU GOYALExit Imperial Realty
$2,250 per month
Great Community Living in Imperial - 4 bed 2 bath Newer Home
172 W. Sampson in Imperial, CA is a four-bedroom, two-bath home offering practical living space and essential kitchen appliances. The kitchen includes a stove, dishwasher, and microwave with range hood. Great sized bedrooms and two full bathrooms provide flexibility for multiple uses such as bedrooms, offices, or hobby spaces. This residence presents a clean, functional layout in a convenient
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