The last few days have seen the monsoon return to Southern California desert areas, and I’ve seen a lot of pictures and video of rain (and flash flooding, too) on social media.
Reminded me that many in my cohort (Middle-aged Gay Men) as well as many other folks of all stripes think of moving to the Palm Springs area all the time. I put together pros and cons lists – as I do for so many things, and did this several years ago for that particular place. I hope someone finds it useful! Today the pros — the cons are coming in a day or so.
Pros of living in Palm Springs (from my very particular perspective as someone comparing it to Los Angeles):
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- Uncrowded gyms for elaborate workouts – and it’s less crowded and much friendlier (the gym, that is)
- Great bike trails that are perfect for a workout all by themselves (such as the PS city loop)
- Biking is safer. Much much safer. That’s because there’s less traffic and there are many off-road bike paths. (That is, when it’s not too hot to bike)
- There are fantastic hiking trails in local mountains, accessibly from the valley floor or by taking the tram to the top of Mt. San Jacinto.
- There is a unique hush in the warmer, hotter weather. I love the silence!
- So easy to sleep there (see hush, above).
- No car traffic, comparatively, to Los Angeles – especially in the off-season, the summer.
- No lines in stores. Shopping, chores are easy! This goes for movies, too.
- It’s easier to meet friendly people – are they just more relaxed? It does seem friendlier than the big bad city.
- It’s easier to meet guys of my age (over 50).
- Palm Springs is so small, you can walk to downtown.
- It’s easy to get around.
- The desert has arthouse cinema: the Camelot and the Palm D’Or.
- Prices of some things (restaurants, movies, etc) are cheaper. (Also, there’s all the senior specials, lower car insurance, lower rent)
- The spring weather and fall weather are absolutely heavenly.
- Slow pace and uncomplicated lifestyle make it easy
- Most days begin with sunshine
- Infrastructure is adapted to the extreme heat
- You see people on the street or in shops or restaurants, and you know them: that nice small town feel.
- Good amount of cultural offerings for a small town on the periphery of a huge city, including a great museum and concert series
- Outstanding 12-Step Recovery Community
- Parking is never a problem
- Breathtaking views of mountains from practically anywhere
- Lots of entrepreneurs
- If you live in Palm Springs or Cathedral City, the airport is only a few minutes away. E-Z.
- And last but not least: Casinos, baby.
What are your favorite pros about living in Palm Springs?