Salton City is a census-designated place (CDP) in Imperial County, California. It is the largest Imperial County development on the Salton Sea coast. It is part of the El Centro, California Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 3,763 at the 2010 census, up from 978 in 2000. The population estimate for 2020 was 5,611.
Although planned and developed as a large resort community with an extensive road, water, sewer and power grid capable of supporting 40,000 residents on 12,000 residential lots, demand for property in Salton City fell drastically short of the planners’ expectations.[4] According to the 2010 census, 81% of the surveyed lots in Salton City remain undeveloped, and 38% of the habitable residences in Salton City are unoccupied. Despite Salton City’s higher population compared to nearby Salton Sea communities such as Bombay Beach and Desert Shores, the eerie, mostly-abandoned appearance of the area has led some to call it a modern ghost town.
Salton Quick Facts
County: Imperial
Population: 5,155 (2020 Census)
Elevation: -125 ft
ZIP code: 92275
Salton City CA offers some of the lowest home and land prices in the region, which makes it a popular choice for first-time buyers, retirees, and investors. Because the community was planned for far more homes than were ever built, buyers can choose from existing single-family homes, manufactured homes, and thousands of vacant lots ready for a new build.
Many newer homes have gone up in recent years as buyers from the Coachella Valley, Los Angeles, and San Diego look for more space for less money.
Salton City sits on the west shore of the Salton Sea along State Route 86, a few miles south of Desert Shores. Residents enjoy quiet streets, wide desert views, and easy access to outdoor recreation. The Borrego Salton Seaway connects the town to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Borrego Springs to the west.
For bigger shopping trips, work, and medical care, residents drive north to Indio and the Coachella Valley or south to Brawley and El Centro in the Imperial Valley.
If you plan to build, confirm that water, sewer, and electric service are available at the lot before you buy, and ask about the cost to connect. Check the lot for street access and any HOA or deed rules, and remember that permits are handled through Imperial County.
Wilder Perez helps buyers and sellers in Salton City CA and across the Salton Sea area from his nearby office. Whether you are buying a home or selling a home, call (760) 483-3479 for a free consultation.