Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Imperial County, nestled in the sun‑kissed southern reaches of California, offers a distinctive blend of desert charm and agricultural heritage. The expansive Imperial Valley, flanked by the scenic Salton Sea and the inviting Imperial River, provides residents with open‑space living, abundant outdoor recreation, and easy access to both the Mexican border and major highways. Its warm climate and low‑density layout attract families, retirees, and professionals seeking a relaxed yet well‑connected lifestyle.
The rental market here balances affordability with variety, featuring both apartments and single‑family homes. One‑bedroom apartments typically fall in the $1,100 range, while two‑bedroom units often land in the $1,500 range, and larger three‑bedroom apartments can be found in the low $1,600s. Detached houses present a step up, with two‑bedroom homes averaging in the $1,400 range, three‑bedroom houses commonly reaching the $2,000 range, and spacious four‑plus‑bedroom properties ranging around the $2,800s. These figures reflect a market that accommodates a broad spectrum of budgets, from entry‑level renters to larger households seeking more space.
Neighborhoods such as downtown El Centro, the historic community of Imperial, and the newer developments near the Imperial Valley Mall provide convenient access to schools, shopping, and cultural venues. Proximity to attractions like the Imperial Sand Dunes, the Coachella Valley Preserve, and nearby wineries adds an extra layer of appeal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and local events. Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment close to amenities or a spacious home with room to grow, Imperial County’s rental landscape offers compelling options in a welcoming, sun‑filled setting.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,185 | $1,095 | $729 - $1,775 | $875 - $1,700 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,595 | $1,575 | $975 - $2,175 | $1,100 - $1,975 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,495 | $1,275 | $912 - $2,300 | $912 - $2,300 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,487 | $1,550 | $700 - $2,150 | $1,400 - $2,150 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $1,983 | $2,200 | $850 - $2,900 | $1,800 - $2,400 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $2,793 | $2,800 | $2,200 - $3,500 | $2,400 - $3,000 |
In the current period, the average rent in Imperial was $1,113 for 1 Bedroom, $1,572 for 2 Bedroom, $1,902 for 3 Bedroom, and $2,644 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.