Coachella is one of the most highly anticipated music festivals, attracting thousands of attendees every year. With such high demand, hotel prices in and around Indio, California, skyrocket during festival weekends. Many visitors seek alternatives, including cheap hotels, vacation rentals, and even camping, to avoid paying premium rates.

Accommodation costs depend on factors like proximity to the festival grounds, amenities, and booking timing. Regardless of if you’re staying in a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, festivalgoers should expect elevated prices. This article breaks down the average cost of Coachella hotels, pricing by location, and tips for securing the best deal.

What Is the Average Cost of a Hotel During Coachella?
Hotels in the Coachella Valley experience a significant price surge during the festival. Standard hotels that typically charge $100 to $150 per night in the off-season can jump to $400 to $600 per night during Coachella weekends. Luxury resorts and boutique hotels often exceed $1,000 per night due to high demand.

The closer a hotel is to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, the more expensive it tends to be. Budget-friendly motels and mid-range hotels in nearby cities, such as Palm Springs and Palm Desert, still see price hikes but may be slightly more affordable. Travelers who wait until the last minute to book often face limited availability and higher costs.

For those looking to save money, consider vacation rentals, group accommodations, or staying farther away. Proper planning and early reservations are key to securing reasonable rates.

How Does Hotel Pricing Vary by Location?
The cost of Coachella hotels can vary significantly based on location. Staying in Indio, where the festival is held, comes at a premium. High-end resorts and boutique hotels near the Empire Polo Club can charge over $1,000 per night due to convenience and demand.

Palm Springs — about 30 to 45 minutes away — offers a mix of mid-range and luxury accommodations. While still expensive, prices here can range from $300 to $800 per night. The city also provides a lively atmosphere with restaurants, nightlife, and poolside resorts.

More affordable options can be found in La Quinta, Palm Desert, and Cathedral City. Hotels in these areas typically range from $250 to $600 per night, depending on availability. Staying even farther away in cities like Joshua Tree or Riverside can offer lower rates, but the trade-off is a longer commute.

Ultimately, the closer to the festival grounds, the higher the price, which makes location a crucial factor when booking accommodations.

What Are Some Alternative Accommodation Options?
With hotel prices soaring during Coachella, many attendees explore alternative accommodations. Vacation rentals, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, offer a range of options, from private rooms to entire homes. While prices also increase during the festival, larger rentals can be cost-effective for groups splitting expenses.

Camping is another popular choice, with Coachella’s official campgrounds providing a budget-friendly and immersive festival experience. On-site camping passes typically cost a few hundred dollars for the weekend, significantly cheaper than hotels. Off-site campgrounds and RV parks in the area also offer affordable lodging.

For those willing to commute, staying in cities further from Indio, such as Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, or even Riverside, can provide lower hotel rates. Some attendees also opt for package deals that bundle festival tickets with accommodations at a discounted rate. Exploring these alternatives can help festivalgoers find lodging that fits their budget and needs.

What Are the Best Tips for Saving on Hotels?
Finding affordable accommodations during Coachella requires strategy and early planning. Booking a hotel as soon as festival dates are announced can help lock in lower rates before prices surge. Many hotels offer early bird discounts, and refundable reservations can provide flexibility.

Loyalty programs and travel reward points can also help cut costs. Major hotel chains in the Coachella Valley participate in rewards programs that may offer free nights or discounts. Group travel is another effective way to save — splitting the cost of a larger rental or suite can be more economical than multiple individual bookings.

For budget-conscious travelers, staying in nearby cities like Palm Springs, Cathedral City, or even further in Riverside can provide more affordable rates. Exploring vacation rentals, hostels, or official festival camping can also significantly reduce expenses.

At the end of the day, flexibility, early planning, and careful comparisons are key to securing the best deal on Coachella lodging.

Coachella Hotels: Make Them Manageable
Coachella hotels are notoriously expensive, with prices spiking due to overwhelming demand. Staying near the festival grounds comes at a premium, but options like vacation rentals, group accommodations, and camping can help cut costs. Those willing to commute from surrounding cities can also find affordable lodging while still enjoying the festival experience.

Securing a reasonably priced stay requires early booking, reward programs, and strategic location choices. While hotel prices during Coachella may seem steep, careful planning can help festivalgoers find accommodations that fit their budget.