Overview Salaries

Salaries in Palm Desert, CA

Updated on Nov 10, 2025
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Salary

What is the average salary in Palm Desert, CA?

The average salary in Palm Desert, CA is $54,649 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Palm Desert, CA, showing an average salary of $54,649 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Palm Desert, CA, showing an average salary of $4,554 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Palm Desert, CA, showing an average salary of $1,051 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Palm Desert, CA, showing an average salary of $26 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Palm Desert, CA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in Palm Desert is $54,649. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the area. Salaries vary based on the industry and the specific role.


The salary distribution in Palm Desert shows a diverse job market. The highest percentage of jobs, 50.65%, falls within the $33,000 to $44,122 range. Other notable salary brackets include:

  • 16.02% of jobs pay between $44,122 and $55,244
  • 6.40% of jobs pay between $55,244 and $66,365
  • 6.20% of jobs pay between $66,365 and $77,487
  • 4.15% of jobs pay between $77,487 and $88,609
  • 3.35% of jobs pay between $88,609 and $99,731
  • 2.86% of jobs pay between $99,731 and $110,853
  • 2.23% of jobs pay between $110,853 and $121,975
  • 1.43% of jobs pay between $121,975 and $133,096
  • 1.09% of jobs pay between $133,096 and $144,218
  • 0.62% of jobs pay over $144,218
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What are the best paying jobs in Palm Desert, CA?

Palm Desert, CA, offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities. Among the top-paying roles are Speech Language Pathologist, Registered Nurse, and Occupational Therapist. These positions provide competitive salaries and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. In Palm Desert, healthcare professionals like Speech Language Pathologists and Registered Nurses enjoy some of the highest earnings. These roles require specialized skills and education but offer rewarding careers. Other well-compensated jobs include Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, and Licensed Vocational Nurses. These positions not only pay well but also contribute to the health and well-being of the community.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Palm Desert, CA, highlighting Speech Language Pathologist with the highest at $114,840 and Personal Trainer with the lowest at $60,840.

  1. Speech Language Pathologist
    Average Salary: $114,840
    This role involves working with patients to improve their communication and swallowing abilities. It often takes place in healthcare facilities and schools. Companies like Palm Desert Healthcare District offer these positions.
    Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  2. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $112,148
    RNs provide essential care to patients in various settings. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Employers such as Eisenhower Health seek skilled nurses for their teams.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  3. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $106,590
    Occupational therapists help patients regain skills needed for daily activities. They work in rehabilitation centers and schools. Companies like Palm Desert Rehabilitation Center hire for these roles.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  4. Physical Therapist Assistant
    Average Salary: $85,904
    PTAs assist physical therapists in helping patients recover from injuries. They work in clinics and hospitals. Employers such as Palm Desert Physical Therapy look for qualified assistants.
    Find Physical Therapist Assistant jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  5. Clinician
    Average Salary: $72,413
    Clinicians provide mental health services to patients. They work in private practices and clinics. Companies like Desert Comprehensive Treatment Center offer these positions.
    Find Clinician jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  6. Licensed Vocational Nurse
    Average Salary: $70,895
    LVNs provide basic medical care and support to patients. They work in hospitals and clinics. Employers such as Palm Desert Healthcare District hire LVNs for their facilities.
    Find Licensed Vocational Nurse jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  7. Outside Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $69,555
    Sales reps promote and sell products to businesses. They work in various industries. Companies like Palm Desert-based firms seek experienced sales professionals.
    Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  8. Sous Chef
    Average Salary: $64,794
    Sous chefs assist head chefs in managing kitchen operations. They work in restaurants and hotels. Employers such as Palm Desert's luxury resorts hire for these roles.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  9. General Manager
    Average Salary: $64,481
    General managers oversee daily operations in businesses. They work in retail, hospitality, and other sectors. Companies like Palm Desert-based businesses seek skilled managers.
    Find General Manager jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  10. Personal Trainer
    Average Salary: $60,840
    Personal trainers help clients achieve fitness goals. They work in gyms and fitness centers. Employers such as Palm Desert Fitness Clubs hire for these positions.
    Find Personal Trainer jobs in Palm Desert, CA

What are the best paying jobs in Palm Desert, CA without a degree?

Palm Desert offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. Restaurant Manager tops the list with an average salary of $63,741. This role involves overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Housekeeping and Groundskeeper positions also provide good earnings, with average salaries around $40,933 and $40,854, respectively. These jobs focus on maintaining clean and well-kept environments in hotels, resorts, and other facilities.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Palm Desert, CA without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $63,741 and Dishwasher with the lowest at $35,751.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $63,741
    Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in upscale dining establishments.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  2. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $40,933
    Clean and maintain rooms and common areas. Ensure a tidy environment for guests. Work in hotels and resorts.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  3. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $40,854
    Maintain the grounds of properties. Perform landscaping tasks. Work in parks, golf courses, and residential areas.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  4. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $40,341
    Provide excellent customer service. Handle reservations and guest inquiries. Work in hospitality settings.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  5. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $40,199
    Prepare and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Work in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  6. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $39,708
    Assist in food preparation and kitchen tasks. Support chefs and cooks. Work in various dining establishments.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  7. Barista
    Average Salary: $39,203
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers. Work in coffee shops and cafes.
    Find Barista jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  8. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $39,010
    Organize and lead recreational activities. Engage with participants. Work in community centers and parks.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  9. Server
    Average Salary: $35,944
    Take orders and serve food and drinks. Provide excellent customer service. Work in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Server jobs in Palm Desert, CA


  10. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $35,751
    Clean dishes and kitchen equipment. Maintain a clean and organized kitchen. Work in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Palm Desert, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Palm Desert, CA?

Job seekers in Palm Desert, CA, can find competitive salaries at several top companies. The College of the Desert offers the highest average salary at $96,246. This makes it a prime choice for those seeking higher pay. Other companies like ChildNet Youth and Family Services and Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center also provide attractive compensation packages. For those looking for well-paying jobs, Palm Desert has several options. ChildNet Youth and Family Services and Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center offer average salaries around $62,000. Companies like Oak View Group, Truly Nolen, and Sullivan's Steakhouse also provide good salaries, ranging from $50,000 to $60,000. These companies show that Palm Desert has many opportunities for job seekers aiming for a good salary.
Graph displaying company salaries in Palm Desert, CA, highlighting College of the Desert with the highest at $96,246 and Aimbridge Hospitality with the lowest at $47,541.

  1. College of the Desert
    Average Salary: $96,246
    College of the Desert offers a range of academic programs. It is known for its supportive environment and quality education.


  2. ChildNet Youth and Family Services
    Average Salary: $62,848
    ChildNet Youth and Family Services focuses on helping children and families. They provide various services to support well-being.


  3. Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
    Average Salary: $62,034
    Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center offers care for seniors. They aim to provide a comfortable and safe living environment.


  4. Oak View Group
    Average Salary: $60,372
    Oak View Group is involved in real estate and property management. They focus on providing quality living spaces.


  5. Truly Nolen
    Average Salary: $54,521
    Truly Nolen specializes in pest control services. They offer solutions to keep homes and businesses pest-free.


  6. Sullivan's Steakhouse
    Average Salary: $50,301
    Sullivan's Steakhouse is a popular dining spot. They serve delicious steak and other menu items in a cozy atmosphere.


  7. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $49,179
    Marriott International is a global hospitality company. They manage hotels and provide a range of services to guests.


  8. Del Taco
    Average Salary: $47,958
    Del Taco is a fast-food chain known for its Mexican-inspired menu. They offer a variety of quick and tasty meals.


  9. Sam's Club
    Average Salary: $47,855
    Sam's Club is a membership warehouse club. They offer a wide selection of products at competitive prices.


  10. Aimbridge Hospitality
    Average Salary: $47,541
    Aimbridge Hospitality manages hotels and resorts. They focus on providing excellent guest experiences.

How does the cost of living in Palm Desert, CA compare to the national average?

Palm Desert, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index in Palm Desert is 115, which is 15% higher than the national average of 100. This increase is largely driven by higher housing costs, which are 40% above the national average. Other categories like groceries, utilities, and transportation also show higher costs, though healthcare and miscellaneous expenses are slightly below the national average. Job seekers should consider these factors when evaluating living expenses in Palm Desert.
Cost of living comparison graph for Palm Desert, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 40% higher, groceries 10% higher, utilities 5% higher, transportation 20% higher, healthcare 5% lower, miscellaneous 15% higher.

Palm Desert, California, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Palm Desert are notably higher, with an index of 140. This means housing expenses are 40% more than the national average. For job seekers considering Palm Desert, this could significantly impact their budget if they are looking to rent or buy a home.


Other expenses in Palm Desert also tend to be higher than the national average. Groceries have an index of 110, indicating a 10% increase in food costs. Utilities are slightly above average at 105, which means a 5% higher cost for services like electricity and water. Transportation costs are 20% higher, with an index of 120, which could affect daily commute expenses. Healthcare costs are slightly lower, with an index of 95, offering a 5% saving compared to the national average. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal care, are 15% higher, with an index of 115. These factors combined show that while Palm Desert offers a desirable lifestyle, it comes with a higher financial commitment.

There are 621 job openings in Palm Desert, CA, today!

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Palm Desert, CA
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