2026 Compare Cities Job Market:
Arcata, CA vs San Marcos, CA

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Highlights
- Job Growth in San Marcos has been positive.
- San Marcos has 0.8% more unemployment than Arcata.
- San Marcos job growth has increased by 10.8% in the past 10 years.
 Arcata, CASan Marcos, CAUnited States
 Current Unemployment  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Future Job Growth31.3%  Unlock33.5%
 Recent Job Growth  Unlock-8.6%-6.2%
 3 Yr. Job Growth-9.1%  Unlock-3.6%
 5 Yr. Job Growth  Unlock-2.2%-0.7%
 10 Yr. Job Growth-7.6%  Unlock6.3%
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 12 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 San Marcos    5 Reviews

Just an amazing place to live. I have lived in 7 states and almost countless cities. Sam Marcos is one of the best. This is literally the longest place I have lived  More

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Over 16 years ago

Is this area to expensive for the average income retired  More

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Over 19 years ago

Beautiful Mediterranean climate with bright sunshine and ocean breazes. City is just 15 minutes away from the  More

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