2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Arcata, CA vs La Mesa, CA

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Highlights
Are people in La Mesa older or younger than people in Arcata?
- The Median Age in La Mesa is 9.1 years older than in Arcata.

Are housing costs cheaper in La Mesa or Arcata?
- La Mesa housing costs are 65.9% more expensive than Arcata housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, La Mesa or Arcata?
- The average commute for residents of La Mesa is 7.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Arcata.

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.

Things to do in La Mesa?
La Mesa, California is a sunny city located in San Diego County. This vibrant community has plenty to offer anyone looking for an exciting place to live or visit. La Mesa has some of the best dining and shopping opportunities in the area, as well as access to several outdoor activities. Families will love the family-friendly attractions available throughout the area, such as roaming train rides and zoos. There are also great educational institutions nearby, making it a great place for students of all ages. With its beautiful weather year-round, La Mesa is an excellent destination to call home!

 Arcata, CALa Mesa, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock61,040329,725,481
 Median Income$39,069  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$444,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.03  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

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It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

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Over 11 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

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Reviews for La Mesa    9 Reviews

The same San Diego prices and high taxes, but not the nice weather. 15 degrees hotter than the coast. Save the money and move to AZ if you like the climate in La Mesa.  More

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I now live in Wyoming but I was a third generation San Diegan, my maternal grandmother having been born on Coronado Island in 1894. If you are a new arrival to the  More

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I Need Correct Information I lived there Over 20 Years  More

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