Palm Springs, sunny California’s desert paradise, has long been a magnet for Canadians. The allure of over 300 days of sunshine, a relaxed lifestyle, and a lively expat community is hard to resist. But what does living in Palm Springs as a Canadian truly entail? 

Whether you're a retiree seeking a warmer climate or a young professional merely looking for a change of scenery, we'll explore the ins and outs—from the cost of living to the local culture— of the Palm Springs lifestyle from a Canadian perspective.

Why we love Palm Springs

Palm Springs is known for its sunny weather and with over 300 days of sunshine per year, it's a haven for sun worshippers. The city's desert climate means hot summers and mild winters, which is a stark contrast to the harsh winters experienced in many parts of Canada.

With sunshine you can depend on year-round, locals embrace the city’s relaxed and leisurely lifestyle. There is no shortage of ways to enjoy the weather, from discovering the canyon trails by foot or bike, to challenging your friend with a game of tennis, all before jumping into a pool to cool down. 

 A significant Canadian expat community calls Palm Springs home. With a community of canucks close by, newcomers are welcomed to a sense of familiarity and camaraderie from like-minded transplants seeking out a different pace of life. It's a place where they can enjoy the sun, engage in vitamin-D-drenched afternoons, and feel at home away from home.

Finding a home in Palm Springs

When it comes to real estate, Palm Springs has a lot to offer Canadian snowbirds. The city is home to a variety of housing options, catering to different tastes and budgets. Condos are a popular choice for Canadians, as they offer a low-maintenance option ideal for those who spend part of the year up north. Single-family homes are also available, often equipped with private outdoor spaces for soaking in the desert weather. If luxury is what you’re after, Palm Springs doesn't disappoint. The city is renowned for its mid-century modern estates, many of which have been home to celebrities, including Elvis Presley’s honeymoon hideaway. 

Living in Palm Springs can be more expensive than some Canadian cities, but it's important to remember that costs vary. Housing is often the largest expense an individual must budget for, but with an array of options in Palm Springs– from modest condos to upscale homes – working with a realtor can help determine housing options and a tailored budget to your lifestyle.

Come for the culture

Greater Palm Springs is an oasis of art and culture, with a bounty of public art and exhibitions to discover for the visually inclined, including breathtaking sculptures and murals. You can  beat the heat and tour a wealth of galleries, including the Desert Painter gallery, which showcases the prolific works of oil painter Terry William Masters who spent a lifetime capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. 

Each spring, Palm Springs garners global attention as the masses make their way through the city for their expedition to the annual Coachella Music Festival. This year, the festival welcomed headliners Lana Del Ray, No Doubt, and Tyler the Creator—just a sampling of the  extensive A-list artists performing or in attendance. As the festival’s two weekend bill kicks off, Palm Springs welcomes thousands of flower-crown clad ticket holders on their way to the neighbouring Coachella Valley. 

Palm Springs is also LGBTQ-friendly and is home to a strong and supportive community. Each year, the city hosts its annual pride celebrations in November, in perfect harmony with the temperatures falling in Canada. With block parties, drag performances, parades, and parties galore, Palm Springs is a popular vacation destination for the queer community. To get a taste of the celebration, secure a reservation at the Trixie Motel.

Fore! Getting outdoors

Golf enthusiasts and aficionados have long been called to the promise land of Palm Springs,home to legendary courses, including championship course Rancho Mirage consistently placing in Golf Digest’s Top 50 Golf Resorts in North America. There is no shortage of courses to practice your swing, with Greater Palm Springs boasting over 120 golf courses, making it America’s premier destination for the sport.  

If golf isn’t your sport, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural splendour of Palm Springs. Just outside the city centre, locals and visitors have access to over 100 trails that carve through the canyons and desert-scapes. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery while working on your fitness, catching a glimpse of the desert dwellers, from succulents, cacti, cottontail rabbits, and hundreds of bird species. 

Just a short drive away, you can plan a visit to famed Joshua Tree National Park. The park is open 365 days a year, with over 300 miles of hiking trails to explore, world-class rock climbing and bouldering sites, horseback riding, and beautiful places to set up camp for anl evening of stargazing. Bring along everything you need, including plenty of water, and experience a taste of the Wild West which feels perfectly preserved in this expansive desert wilderness.

Things to consider before making a move to the US

Moving to Palm Springs from Canada involves some legal considerations. One of the first things to consider is the visa requirements. As well, property ownership in Palm Springs comes with its own set of rules. It's important to understand local zoning laws and regulations and be well-researched before investing in a home in Palm Springs (or anywhere in the US for that matter) so you can better anticipate how the differing countries could impact your finances and planning. Afterall, informed research and planning will be the keystone of a successful move.