Compared to some of the most expensive housing in the USA? I'd bet more 2bd 2ba homes are sold <200k in the USA than the other way around by a long shot.

The difference is that Palm Springs is a resort city with something like 150 golf courses, is 2 hours from LA, 2.5 hours from San Diego, 1.5 hours from Orange County, and even has Big Bear ~1.5 hours away if you like to ski in the winter without having to make a weekend trip (it's not great snow, but it is a mountain).

It's true, you get a phenomenal home that's essentially part of a giant resort for much lower than LA (and you're only 2 hours from LA, 2.5 from San Diego, and 1.5 from Orange County). Yes, the summer is awful, but if you like golf or tennis and can work remotely, you can always leave for the summer. I'd be happy to put you in touch with my dad if you're actually interested (no pressure if you prefer to avoid an agent right now or have someone you already work with though).