2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Arcata, CA vs Pismo Beach, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Pismo Beach older or younger than people in Arcata?
- The Median Age in Pismo Beach is 31.3 years older than in Arcata.

Are housing costs cheaper in Pismo Beach or Arcata?
- Pismo Beach housing costs are 171.6% more expensive than Arcata housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Pismo Beach or Arcata?
- The average commute for residents of Pismo Beach is 5.1 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 Pismo Beach?
Living in Pismo Beach, CA is an incredible experience. The area is known for its stunning coastline and seaside cliffs, providing mesmerizing views of the Pacific. It's also very close to a number of exciting attractions like Hearst Castle, Avila Beach, and Oceano Dunes. With so much to explore both on land and water, Pismo Beach offers something for everyone. It is also home to great restaurants and bars that serve up delicious local cuisine. Plus, the weather is almost always beautiful with plenty of sunshine to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for an outdoorsy adventure or simply a leisurely beachside stroll, Pismo Beach provides plenty of opportunities to make your stay memorable.

 Arcata, CAPismo Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock8,058329,725,481
 Median Income$39,069  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock58.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$444,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.8%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Arcata

Reviews for Pismo Beach    4 Reviews

It's a nice town to visit - although very touristy. Clean air - and nice sand dunes nearby. A variety of housing - but expensive. Good for seafood. I would say  More

   |    Reply

It's still challenging to find a good job: Diablo Canyon Nuclear plant has announced it will be closing in 9 years, so many 6-figure incomes will be going along with the  More

   |    Reply

Over 9 years ago

Because of fires allowed in campsites each and everyday it is very smokey and hard to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Pismo Beach


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.