Thermal, CA: Discover Things To Do & Real Estate Insights!

Miss Flossie Schinner 10 May 2025

Ever considered escaping to a place where the sun kisses the earth, and the air hums with the promise of adventure? Thermal, California, might just be the answer you're looking for.

This desert town, nestled in Riverside County, offers a unique blend of agricultural charm and adrenaline-pumping activities. Thermal is an unincorporated community within the Coachella Valley, a geographical tapestry woven with the threads of both natural beauty and human enterprise. Located approximately 25 miles southeast of Palm Springs and about 9.5 miles north of the Salton Sea, Thermal's location is a compelling story in itself. It's a place where the pastmarked by its history as a railroad camp and a former naval air stationmeets the present, with the roar of engines at the Thermal Club motorsports racetrack punctuating the serene desert landscape.

Category	Information
Location	Unincorporated community in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California
Distance from Palm Springs	Approximately 25 miles (40 km) southeast
Distance from Salton Sea	Approximately 9.5 miles (15.3 km) north
Coordinates	33 38' 25" North, 116 8' 19" West
Elevation	138 feet below mean sea level
Population (as of July 1, 2024 - Thermal CDP)	2,626
Population (Suburb Estimate)	1,420
Population Density (Estimate)	About 56 people per square mile (based on total city population of 1,198)
Land Area	9.45 sq. miles (formal boundaries for the Thermal Census Designated Place)
Water Area	0 sq. miles
County	Riverside County
Area Codes	760 and 442
Zip Code	92274
Median Household Income	$86,748 (as a general reference point)
Climate	Hot desert climate
Primary Significance	Agriculture, proximity to the Coachella Valley
Nearby Attractions	Salton Sea, Empire Polo Club
Local Businesses & Activities	Date gardens, horse parks, BMW driving school, ATV rentals, Thermal Club motorsports racetrack
Air Quality	High air pollution level
Cost of Living	Low cost of living (comparatively)
Natural Disasters	Higher incidence compared to the US average (Riverside County: 50 vs. US Average: 19)
Political Leaning	Residents tend to lean liberal
Real Estate	Most residents own their homes
Things to Do (according to TripAdvisor)	Explore date gardens, horse parks, BMW driving school, ATV rentals, and more. TripAdvisor has 219 reviews of Thermal hotels, attractions, and restaurants.

Riverside County Official Website

For those seeking adventure, Thermal offers a wealth of activities. TripAdvisor, a valuable resource, boasts 219 reviews of Thermal hotels, attractions, and restaurants, making it a reliable guide for planning your visit. Explore date gardens, where you can sample the sweet bounty of the desert. For equestrian enthusiasts, horse parks provide opportunities to witness the grace and power of these magnificent animals. The BMW driving school offers a chance to hone your driving skills on a professional track, while ATV rentals promise off-road thrills amidst the rugged desert terrain. The Thermal Club, a private motorsports facility, adds a touch of high-octane excitement to the area.

The landscape of Thermal is as diverse as its activities. The community's elevation sits at 138 feet below mean sea level, a stark reminder of the powerful geological forces that have shaped this region. While its beauty is undeniable, it's crucial to note that Thermal faces environmental challenges. The air pollution level is high, a factor to consider for those with respiratory sensitivities. Despite this, the cost of living remains relatively low, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable living in Southern California.

Agriculture plays a vital role in Thermal's identity. Located in the southern part of California, the community is primarily known for its agricultural significance and its proximity to the Coachella Valley. Jewel Date Company, for example, exemplifies this dedication, committing itself to producing high-quality and safe dates and date-based products. Their goal is to meet and exceed customer expectations, ensuring confidence in their food products.

The weather in Thermal is characterized by its hot desert climate. While the sun shines brightly for most of the year, there is a wetter season that lasts approximately 4.2 months, from November 22 to March 29. During this period, the chance of a wet day is greater than 7%. It is important to note that Riverside County experiences a higher number of natural disasters compared to the U.S. average, with 50 recorded incidents versus the national average of 19. This underscores the importance of preparedness and awareness of potential risks.

Demographically, Thermal is a diverse community. Although population figures vary depending on the source, the Thermal CDP had an estimated population of 2,626 as of July 1, 2024. Another estimate suggests a population of 1,420, reflecting its status as a suburb. The total city population is estimated at around 1,198, with approximately 56 people per square mile. There is a high percentage of Hispanic residents, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Many families reside in Thermal, and the community tends to lean liberal politically. A significant portion of residents own their homes, indicative of a stable and invested population.

Thermal is served by area codes 760 and 442 and its zip code is 92274. Finding directions to Thermal is straightforward, with numerous online resources providing maps, local business information, landmark locations, and real-time traffic updates. Whether you're planning a visit for the day, the weekend, or even a longer stay, Thermal has something to offer every traveler.

From the adrenaline rush of the racetrack to the tranquil beauty of the date gardens, Thermal is a destination that defies expectations. It's a place where the past and present converge, where agriculture and motorsports coexist, and where the desert landscape offers both challenges and rewards. So, if you're seeking a unique California experience, consider Thermala hidden gem in the Coachella Valley.