Set at the intersection of Highways 62 and 247, Yucca Valley is a quirky desert town that’s known mostly as a pit stop before Joshua Tree National Park. As a gateway city, the town sees its fair share of tourists, a fact that stirs up mixed feelings among the locals, but what really sets Yucca Valley apart is its undercurrent of the unusual. “People live here all year. But it’s also very popular for Airbnbs, so there are lot of visitors,” says Brandy Nelson, Executive Director of Equity Union Real Estate with over 20 years of experience. The city was once known as Lone Star – mostly because it felt like the only speck of civilization for miles around. Today, Yucca Valley has grown into a city of roughly 22,000, small enough to where most residents a place where most residents know each other by name.
Scattered around town are healing spots that go beyond run-of-the-mill day spas, offering alternative therapies to those seeking desert escapes. The town’s history of UFO sightings adds another layer of intrigue, with certain areas once considered hotspots for aliens. Just outside town lies Pioneertown, a piece of the Wild West frozen in time, complete with weathered wooden buildings and tumbleweeds. Companies like Amerigas, Hi Desert Propane and Ferrell Gas have turned the city into somewhat of a propane hub — Yucca Valley's largest industry.
Yucca Valley, California
The Integratron in Landers was listed in 2019 on the National Register of Historic Places.
A group of beautiful desert homes sit near the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park.
The Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum stands as a special place of desert art in Landers.
1/4
Midcentury homes with desert and Spanish influences
The median home price in Yucca Valley is about $374,000, compared to $415,000 in Joshua Tree and nearly $600,000 million in Palm Springs. While there are a handful of modest ranch-style homes from the 1980s, most local homes are either midcentury ranch-style or 21st-century new traditional with two stories and Spanish-style details. The priciest homes can reach between $1.3 and $2 million, homes that are either newly built or were recently renovated.
Classic Spanish style home seen in the desert landscape of Landers.
Subdivision with midcentury houses
Where mid-century modern design meets desert tranquility in Yucca Valley.
A small desert home located on a large lot in Yucca Valley..
1/4
MUSD supports student artists
The Morongo Unified School District serves roughly 7,400 students and earns an overall grade of C-plus from Niche. The district is home to 11 elementary schools, 2 middle and three high schools. In 2019, the district partnered with the Groundwork Arts Program with the goal of expanding arts education, giving art students opportunities to learn from Morongo Basin artists. They were honored with a Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association in 2024.
The athletics at Yucca Valley High School are some of the best in the area.
Students are the highest priority at Yucca Mesa Elementary School in Yucca Valley.
La Contenta Middle School populates under 800 students.
Friendly Hills Elementary School in Joshua Tree challenges and encourages children to learn.
1/4
Expanding parks and desert flora and fauna
The 5-acre Yucca Valley Community Center features a playground, skate park and athletic fields. “We’re building 8 pickleball courts in 2025,” says Jakub “Kuba” Kusmieruk, Sports & Wellness Supervisor of the Yucca Valley Community Center. “We offer an adults softball league, fitness classes and even Bollywood dance classes. In the summer, we have concerts.” The adjacent Hi-Desert Nature Museum showcases the High Desert ecosystem, an interactive museum with kid-friendly exhibits. Joshua Tree National Park, 11 miles away, covers an area slightly larger than Rhode Island, spanning parts of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts. The park’s landscape includes sagebrush, wildflowers, and Joshua Trees among rocky outcroppings, attracting hikers and campers. In Yucca Valley, the Warren Peak trail provides a 6-mile hike with 1,100 feet of elevation gain.
Yucca Valley locals enjoy the skate park at Community Park.
The Hi-Desert Nature Museum
Joshua Tree Visitor Center offers information and local knowledge about the area.
Residents have access to world-class hiking and rock climbing at Joshua Tree National Park.
1/4
Eateries and shopping concentrated along Highway 62
Most of Yucca Valley’s restaurants and retail options line Highway 62 -– also known as 29 Palms Highway. However, on Highway 247, the locally owned La Copine stands out. Once dubbed the “High Desert’s Best Destination Restaurant” by the Los Angeles Times, La Copine has been gaining traction since its opening in 2015, known for a menu that features comfort food and international dishes. Thrift and antique shopping are popular here, with secondhand shoppers preferring Angel View Resale Store and Pioneer Crossing Antiques. Regional grocers like Vons and Stater Bros Markets can also be found along Highway 62. Residents head to the Sky Village Outdoor Marketplace for the weekend flea market, picking up locally sourced items.
Yucca Valley locals and visitors go bargain shopping at the Sky Village Outdoor Marketplace.
Yucca Valley locals love sitting outside of Luna Bakery to enjoy their lunch.
Yucca Valley residents can enjoy the endless menu at Frontier's.
Yucca Valley locals enjoy the brunch offered at The Tiny Pony Tavern
1/4
Morongo Basin Transit helps locals get around
“There is one main road, Highway 62,” Nelson says. “It gets busy, but it’s not a problem with traffic.” Highway 62 leads to Joshua Tree in about 8 miles and Palm Springs in about 28 miles. Nearby Interstate 10, which leads to Los Angeles in about 121 miles, gets particularly congested during Stagecoach and Coachella music festivals in April. Hi-Desert Medical Center is a straight shot down Highway 62, less than 10 miles from the center of Yucca Valley. Morongo Basin Transit Authority serves the area, with 9 different bus stops in the city. Palm Springs International Airport is about 36 miles south. Yucca Valley Airport is a small private airport in the center of the neighborhood; it abides by noise abatement procedures.
High fire risk and slightly higher crime risk
Yucca Valley has a fire risk, and the average summer high is 108 degrees, so staying cool is paramount. Cooling centers include the Yucca Valley Community Center and Yucca Valley Senior Center. According to FBI statistics from December 2023, the Yucca Valley Police Department reported violent crime at an annual rate of about 8 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the California rate of about 10 and national rate of roughly 12. Property-related crime was reported at an annual rate of around 29 incidents per 1,000 residents, higher than the California rate of 20 and the national rate of 17.
Written By
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Marcus Yzaguirre
Video By
Mike Dunleavy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kelly McLaren,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Pioneertown Mountains Preserve - The Wildlands Conservancy
Brehm Park Family Recreation Center
Jacobs Park
Yucca Valley Housing Trends
On average, homes in Yucca Valley, CA sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Yucca Valley, CA over the last 12 months is $380,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME IN THE HEART OF YUCCA VALLEY! THIS CHARMING 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH PROPERTY WITH RV PARKING OFFERS TWO BONUS ROOMS—PERFECT FOR A HOME OFFICE, GUEST SPACE, OR HOBBY ROOMS. SITUATED ON A HUGE LOT, THERE’S PLENTY OF ROOM TO EXPAND, ENTERTAIN, OR SIMPLY ENJOY THE PEACEFUL DESERT LIFESTYLE. THE HOME FEATURES RECENT UPDATES THROUGHOUT, PROVIDING A FRESH AND MODERN FEEL. STAY
Randy HatfieldBerkshire Hathaway Homeservices California Realty
New improved price . Discover a rare opportunity to own a custom-built Santa Fe-style home in the highly sought-after Sky Harbor neighborhood of Yucca Valley. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence sits on over half an acre, offering a beautiful balance of comfort, style, and peaceful desert living. Step inside to soaring ceilings and an open-concept layout designed for both everyday living
****BACK ON THE MARKET AT NO FAULT OF SELLER UPON CANCELLATION OF CURRENT ESCROW***PRICE IMPROVEMENT ** SELLER WANTS IT SOLD ASAP*** Showpiece in Yucca Valley — “!!ASSUMABLE LOAN @3.8%!!” **RARE OPPORTUNITY-LOWER MONTHLY PAYMENTS THAN LOCAL RENT THANKS TO THE ASSUMABLE RATE (IF USED)** Turnkey Corner-Lot Home Welcome home to this stunning, fully renovated "METICULOUSLY REBUILT DOWN TO THE STUDS
BACK ON THE MARKET! Welcome to Nuevo Sol ! Absolutely charming renovated mid century pool home, located on expansive approx. 1/3 acre lot with panoramic mountain views. Offered Turnkey furnished and a highly rated active vacation rental. Conveniently located only 2 1/2 blocks from 29 Palms Highway, 10 minute drive to Blackrock entrance for Joshua Tree to the east and Pioneertown to the north
Discover the opportunity to own a piece of the high desert in Yucca Valley! This residential parcel offers a peaceful setting surrounded by natural desert beauty, with nearby homes and easy access to town amenities. Whether you're looking to build your custom home, invest in land, or secure a future getaway spot, this property provides flexibility and potential. Enjoy wide open skies, scenic
This is 3 lots - total of 5 acres, being sold all together. 1 lot is 2.5 acres and 2 lots are 1.25 acres each. Located at the intersection of Alta Ave. and Drexel Rd. Parcels are located on the Southeast corner of the intersection.Property has electric pole on the corner and a fire hydrant. Phone cable located across the intersection on the Southwest corner.Buyer would have to have a
Rare Desert Duplex on 2 Acres – Two Income-Producing Homes! A unique opportunity to own a true dual-income property in the desert. This fully permitted duplex features two separate site-built homes, ideal for renting both units or living in one while generating income from the other. The expansive 2-acre lot opens the door to additional revenue opportunities—perfect for hosting private events,
Expansive desert opportunity awaits with this 4.70 acre residential lot with APN 0631-091-45-0000 located on Avalon Rd in Yucca Valley. Set in a desirable High Desert location, this parcel is surrounded by established homes and estate properties nearby, offering both privacy and a sense of community development. The generous acreage provides ample space for a variety of future possibilities,
Welcome to The Moasis, a striking modern retreat set on 5 private acres and surrounded by iconic Joshua Trees, just 15 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. This bold architectural statement seamlessly blends contemporary design with the raw beauty of the high desert, offering privacy, views, and unforgettable style. Inside, the home opens to an airy, light-filled interior anchored by a
Southside of Yucca Valley, California 7 acres +- . Sub-divide up to 14 Homes, Condos, Mobile home or RV Park, SFH. Sewer, water and power Buyers to verify as to permits call the Town Of Yucca Valley Building Safety. There is a clearance pad to build a Single Family Home .
Great opportunity to own residential land in the desirable Yucca Valley area! This parcel offers a peaceful high desert setting with beautiful natural surroundings, open space, and nearby residential development. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, create a weekend retreat, or invest in land for future growth, this property provides flexibility and strong potential. Enjoy expansive
Opportunity to own land in the desirable desert community of Yucca Valley, CA! This parcel offers a great chance to build a custom home, create a desert getaway, or invest in an area known for its steady growth and proximity to Joshua Tree National Park. Surrounded by open desert landscapes and nearby residential properties, this lot provides a peaceful setting with beautiful desert views and
OWNER WILL CARRY! Ask an Agent for details and terms. Price Reduction! Seller Says Sell! CORNER LOT! Prime Location! 3.6 acres of buildable land on the corner of Yucca Mesa Rd and Aberdeen across from Mesa Market! This convenient locale offers views and easy access routes to nearby Joshua Tree and the National Park, the city of Yucca Valley with stores and restaurants, the quick access, back way
Melissa Shupp
Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices California Properties
Welcome home to this stunning, fully renovated "METICULOUSLY REBUILT DOWN TO THE STUDS WITH PERMITS, THIS TURNKEY HOME BLENDS MODERN SYSTEMS AND FINISHES WITH COMFORTABLE DESERT LIVING" 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence with 1 oversized car garage, ideally located on a generous corner lot a short distance to schools and a short drive to Joshua Tree National Park (approx 15-20 mins) & World famous
Experience luxury living at its finest in the heart of Yucca Valley, just minutes away from the stunning landscapes of Joshua Tree. Our exquisite one and two-bedroom apartments feature expansive floor plans designed to provide ample space for comfortable living and entertaining.Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of lush greenery and the serene atmosphere of the adjacent golf course,
Located in the heart of Yucca Valley, this award-winning community for seniors ages 55 years and better, offers high-quality one-bedroom apartment homes at affordable prices. Residents of Dumosa Senior Village enjoy a wide variety of amenities, including a state-of-the-art computer room, a community center for resident services and events, a fitness center, onsite laundry facilities, and
Property Id: 2325350Still available as of 6/11/26 with no approved tenants. Location Location, just a couple houses away from a large park with big jungle gym, skate park, and community center!! Completely modern and trendy 3 bed 2 bath home with CENTRAL HVAC system (no unreliable prone to break mini-splits), redone with top of the line materials and appliances: Newer paint, Newer Vinyl
Modern Desert Retreat with Panoramic Views. Escape to your own private sanctuary in the heart of the high desert. Perched on a scenic hillside surrounded by iconic Joshua trees and natural rock formations, this beautifully updated home offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and timeless desert style. Inside this fully furnished and well appointed home, has soaring wood-beamed ceilings and
This home is being offered for rent by Southern Cal Property Management in Yucca Valley.SHOWINGS: Please call the office to schedule a showing. 833-RENT-760. Or schedule a self showing directly at our website.APPLY: Please fill out an application directly on our website which is marked in each photo.Applicant criteria/qualifications and additional fees are listed on the first
Beautifully remodeled Studio with it's own covered patio and small fenced area. All utilities are paid. Mini split AC/Heat unit. Comes with stove, refrigerator and washer and dryer. Minimum qualifications: credit score 650, no evictions, 2 x rent
Welcome to Southern California's high desert living! This updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features 1448-sqft of living space that blends comfort and style with high ceilings, recessed lights, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, stylish glass vessel sinks in the bathrooms, luxury vinyl flooring throughout and a double attached garage. The inviting single-level layout has an open
Teri Robles-DunawayDunaway Real Estate Group
$2,995 per month
$250 Move-In Special! Updated 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home ready to welcome you HOME!
We are pleased to present this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the scenic Yucca Valley, CA. This spacious property combines comfort, style, and the space you need, making it a must-see and offering a $250 move in special!Features of the home include:- Three large bedrooms- Beautiful kitchen with ample counter space and cabinetry- Separate dining room
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
