RANK #94 / 996 · POP 179,578 · CA
PROJECTED GROWTH: +3.0%
Imperial County, California, distinguishes itself as a desert region transformed by extensive irrigation, earning it the moniker "America's winter salad bowl" due to its agricultural output. Located in the southeastern corner of California, bordering Arizona and Mexico, the county is about an hour's drive from San Diego. The community feel is influenced by its border location and agricultural heritage. Outdoor recreation is a significant draw, with the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area attracting off-road enthusiasts and the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge offering a renowned birding site. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California's largest state park, also has portions within Imperial County, providing miles of dirt roads and hiking trails.
Life in Imperial County is characterized by a blend of cultures due to its proximity to Mexico. While the cost of living, particularly housing, is lower than the California average, residents often note a need for more diverse entertainment options. The economy, historically rooted in agriculture, which contributes billions annually, is undergoing diversification. Major investment is flowing into renewable energy sectors, including solar, wind, and geothermal power. The region is also gaining recognition as "Lithium Valley" due to its significant lithium reserves, positioning it for growth in battery manufacturing and related industries. Commute times average around 22 minutes, with public bus services available in cities like El Centro, Brawley, and Calexico. Local public schools are generally considered above average.
Below national median (4.7x)
Well below national median
Below national median (13x)
Housing is fairly valued at 4.6x relative to local economic output. Climate and geography support a structural premium. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Imperial Data Center (Aten and Clark roads)
Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing (IVCM)
|
$10,000M | Proposed |
|
CalEthos Data Center Complex
CalEthos
|
$5,500M | Proposed |
|
Wildcat Energy Farm (Solar & BESS)
RAI Energy
|
$1,600M | Planned |
|
Vikings Energy Farm (Solar & BESS)
Arevon Energy (originally RAI Energy)
|
$529M | Operating |
|
Kingsley Solar Farm
Unknown
|
$225M | Planned |
|
Big Rock Energy Storage Site
LS Energy Solutions & Gore Street Energy Storage Fund
|
$200M | Operating |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Imperial County has a Boom Town Index score of 91/100, ranking #94 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +2.1% and a median household income of $53,847, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Imperial County is $256,000 with median rent at $961/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.2103, which is less affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -0.3% year-over-year. Job growth: +2.1%. Home values changed +6.8% in the past 12 months.