2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Arcata, CA vs Ocean Shores, WA

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Highlights
Are people in Ocean Shores older or younger than people in Arcata?
- The Median Age in Ocean Shores is 36.2 years older than in Arcata.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ocean Shores or Arcata?
- Ocean Shores housing costs are 21.7% less expensive than Arcata housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ocean Shores or Arcata?
- The average commute for residents of Ocean Shores is 8.8 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 Ocean Shores?
Living in Ocean Shores, WA is a truly unique experience. Located on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State, Ocean Shores offers miles of beautiful sandy beaches, lush coastal forests, and quaint towns and villages. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy such as beachcombing, bird watching, surfing, kayaking, fishing, and more. In addition to its natural beauty, the city is home to an array of charming restaurants, cafes, shops and galleries that make it a favorite destination for visitors from near and far. It's also a great place to raise a family with its low crime rate and excellent schools. All told, living in Ocean Shores is a wonderful way to experience all of the beauty this state has to offer while living within a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

 Arcata, CAOcean Shores, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock6,637329,725,481
 Median Income$39,069  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$444,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.8%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 Ocean Shores    7 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

We are going on our 3rd year in OS. We love the small town feel, the low stress and feeling of safety. This is all for the winter months mind you. In the summer, it is a  More

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Over 10 years ago

Wonderful beach town.... we're going into our second year and I disagree with the grocery store comments and the weather. Yes, it rains or drizzles on occasion, but the  More

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We invested in Ocean Shores as a second home to spend our weekends after the work week stress. I'm also a property manager that works in Washington, Oregon and  More

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