Why Live in Twentynine Palms
Twentynine Palms, located in the High Desert of California, is a sprawling community just north of Joshua Tree National Park. Known for its panoramic views of the Mojave Desert and its historical significance, the area was first inhabited by Native Americans due to a spring in the dry terrain. Gold prospectors arrived in the 1870s, and after World War I, the city helped soldiers recover from respiratory ailments. Today, Twentynine Palms is home to thousands associated with the largest Marine Corps training base. Housing in Twentynine Palms features single-family homes on deep lots, with many Spanish-inspired designs that include stucco exteriors and tile or flat roofing to withstand the desert heat. Mid-century modern and ranch styles are also prevalent, offering expansive floor plans and large windows for natural light. The community offers various things to do, including hiking trails in Joshua Tree National Park and the Oasis of Mara, as well as local parks like Knott Sky Park and Luckie Park, which provide playsets, picnic shelters, athletic fields, and a pool. Twentynine Palms Highway is lined with colorful murals, boutiques, and a farmers market, offering locally grown produce and secondhand goods. Dining options range from Kitchen in the Desert, an outdoor café with Caribbean-influenced American fare, to Edchada’s, a Mexican restaurant known for its hearty dishes and super-sized cocktails. The Morongo Unified School District serves the public school students in the area. Summers in Twentynine Palms are extremely hot, often exceeding 100 degrees, while winters are mild with occasional freezing temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Twentynine Palms, CA?
The median rent for a home in Twentynine Palms, CA is $1,450 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of August 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Twentynine Palms, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Twentynine Palms, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $58,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,450 per month in Twentynine Palms, CA, renters typically need to show $4,350 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Twentynine Palms, CA?
In Twentynine Palms, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 14.6, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
There are currently 2 homes available for rent in Twentynine Palms, CA. The median rent is $1,450 per month, with single-family homes renting at $1,795, townhouses at $1,373 and condos at $1,275.
Number of Homes for Rent
2
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,795
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Median Townhouse Rent
$1,373
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