Incorporated in 1973, Rancho Mirage has always been home to the affluent who, "in season", flee the cold climes and flock to the three world class resorts that lie within its city limits, or to their homes in the many exclusive (read expensive) and gated enclaves that dot the landscape. President Gerald Ford, among other notables, made his home here and Betty Ford still resides here. The city has one of the smallest resident populations in the valley, estimated to be a little over 16,000; only Indian Wells is smaller.

In addition to its resorts and gated communities, the city is noted for many fine restaurants along "Restaurant Row", and many exclusive service providers and shopping venues. Rancho Mirage is also home to the Betty Ford Clinic and Eisenhower Medical Center, one of the finest medical facilities in California, and listed in the Top 100 of hospital facilities in the nation.

The median housing price is $678,500.