If you are looking for a second home or retire in the desert, then this is the best time to purchase a home in Desert Hot Springs (DHS). The ideal location is in the "west side", which includes the communities of Mission Lakes CC, Paradise Springs, and Skyborne. The community of Mountain View may look appealing, but it has high crime. With the exception of the communities I described above, most of the city is undesirable and has high crime. If you live in DHS, you will find yourself going to a few local in-town shopping areas and restaurants, but will mostly travel to Palm Springs, Cathedral City, or Ranch Mirage for decent places to hang out.