Rancho Mirage incorporated in 1973  and quickly established itself as a resort city for the affluent with world class resorts and exclusive gated private communities. Seasonally residents flee their homes in cold climes and return to Rancho Mirage. World class resorts lie within its city limits and you will find many upscale (read expensive) gated enclaves here. For seasonal residents these private, gated communities provide especially convenient options. President Gerald Ford, among other notables, made his home here. There are three golf courses located in Rancho Mirage. The city has one of the smallest resident populations in the valley, at 17,303, according to the 2021 census. 

Rancho Mirage offers many fine restaurants along “Restaurant Row”, and there are many exclusive service providers such as Spas and shopping venues. The city is also home to the Betty Ford Clinic, the Lucy Cursi Cancer Treatment Center, and the Eisenhower Medical Center, one of the finest medical complexes in California. Eisenhower Medical Center is listed in the “Top 100” for hospital facilities in the nation.

A newer Rancho Mirage Public Library is located on Highway 111. Borrowing privileges are extended to residents around the valley. The library also offers a vibrant ongoing program of lectures, films and concerts. 

 In August 2023, the price of an average sized detached home in Rancho Mirage was $1,280,101 and for attached homes (condos) $615,333. Per capita household in 2021 was $95,158.