A primary point of misinformation suggests that Cotino displaced affordable housing in order to make way for the master-planned community. This is false. The Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park—the subject of ongoing lawsuits against the city—was not located on the footprint of Cotino, and its closure occurred years before Disney announced the project. The city of Rancho Mirage, not Disney, was responsible for managing affordable housing in the area, and any assertion that Disney played a role in displacing residents is incorrect.
Additionally, Cotino was never required to include affordable housing in its plans. The responsibility for affordable housing in Rancho Mirage falls on the city itself, which has its own initiatives currently in progress to address housing accessibility.
Cotino: A Bold Step in Storyliving by Disney
Cotino marks a significant milestone for Disney’s Storyliving initiative, blending the company’s signature storytelling with luxury residential living. The 618-acre development will feature more than 1,900 homes, with prices starting at over $1 million and reaching more than $2 million for premium properties.
This community aims to create an immersive , vibrant lifestyle inspired by the beauty of the Coachella Valley, offering an experience unlike any other residential development in the region. Residents will enjoy exclusive amenities, beautifully designed neighborhoods, and a curated environment where Disney’s expertise in hospitality and entertainment elevates everyday living.
Separating Fact from Fiction: Rancho Mirage’s Housing Plans
Credit: Storyliving By Disney While concerns have been raised about affordable housing in Rancho Mirage, it’s important to recognize that the city is actively working on solutions separate from Cotino. Rancho Mirage officials have confirmed that over 1,000 affordable housing units are in development as part of the city’s broader state-mandated Housing Element plan.
Statements from Rancho Mirage city officials emphasize that the ongoing lawsuits over the former Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park have no connection to Cotino. The legal dispute concerns the city’s obligations regarding past affordable housing agreements, not Disney’s new community.
Moreover, as a private developer, Disney was not required to include affordable housing within Cotino. The city retains full control over zoning and land-use decisions related to affordability, and officials have reiterated their commitment to expanding housing options in other areas.
Economic & Cultural Benefits of Cotino
Beyond its residential appeal, Cotino is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to the Coachella Valley region. The project is generating hundreds of jobs, both during construction and through permanent roles in hospitality, maintenance, and community services. The influx of new residents and visitors will also boost local businesses, drive tourism, and contribute to the city’s overall growth.
For those concerned about access to housing, Rancho Mirage’s existing affordable housing plans will continue to provide diverse options for residents. Meanwhile, Cotino serves a different but complementary role, attracting new homeowners and enhancing the area’s real estate value and desirability.
Disney’s Vision for the Future
Cotino represents a new frontier in Disney’s approach to real estate, offering an elevated living experience for those who value immersive environments, strong community engagement, and meticulous design. Unlike traditional residential developments, Storyliving by Disney communities are designed to foster a sense of magic, inspiration, and belonging—bringing the company’s world-renowned expertise in storytelling and hospitality into everyday life.
As sales continue and the first homes are delivered, Cotino is on track to become a premier luxury community, setting a new standard for master-planned developments. The project underscores Disney’s commitment to quality, experience-driven living, and long-term economic contributions, making it an exciting addition to Rancho Mirage’s future.
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Credit: Inside the Magic